Paul Heckingbottom has already identified a major Sheffield United advantage in promotion race

Sheffield United's postponed matches over Christmas has left them at a disadvantage in one respect.

The Blades have three games a week up until the next international break in March and it will be a demanding set of fixtures.

Given their position in the league it also means there is little room for error as they try to reel those teams in above them and force their way into the top six picture.

But depending how you look at it, there is also a positive and one that Paul Heckingbottom believes they can use to their advantage.

Twelve of the remaining 19 matches are at home and the Blades boss is hoping that can really give his side the edge during those closing stages.

Currently 10th in the table, victory over sixth-placed West Brom tomorrow evening would give those hopes a real shot in the arm.

And with seven of the top eight still to visit Bramall Lane, Heckingbottom wants those teams to feel what he felt when bringing sides to S2 as an opposition manager.

"Hopefully it's a huge one [advantage]," he said.

"With the way the fixtures have panned out we have 12 of the last 19 games at home and we want that to be a real positive.

"We want to be a force at Bramall Lane. Having brought teams to Bramall Lane and experienced what it's like in the opposition dugout it doesn't half give you a lift and an advantage if you get the fans on your side.

"It can drive you on and give you extra energy in your legs as a home player while at the same time taking away that energy from the opposition.

"It can be powerful, like a 12th man. We really want that from the fans and will be certainly trying our best to deliver that type of atmosphere.

"As I said, I have experienced it on the other end of that and it can add to that uneasy