Sheffield United boss provides major injury update ahead of Nottingham Forest play-off clash

Sheffield United manager Paul Heckingbottom has said that Billy Sharp is ‘closer’ to returning to action in time for the play-off semi-final vs Nottingham Forest.

The veteran striker has missed the last two league games with a calf injury but is working hard to get back to fitness. The club captain has scored 14 times in the Championship this season and is the Blades' only recognised striker within the squad.

Attacking midfielder Iliman Ndiaye has been playing as a stand-in striker with good effect. The 22-year-old has been on the scoresheet in each of the Blades’ last three games, scoring and providing an assist in the final day 4-0 win over champions Fulham.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Heckingbottom gave an update on the potential availability of Sharp. “Bill’s another few days closer,” he said.

“We’d like him to be (available), if he’s able to play some part in the tie. If he’s not ready, he’s not ready. He is doing all he can and the staff are doing all they can to make sure there is that opportunity.”

Sharp spent the season on loan with Forest back in 2012/13, scoring a total of 11 goals for the club over the campaign. He returned to his boyhood club Sheffield United in the summer of 2015.

The Blades have no new injury concerns ahead of Saturday’s clash, but Heckingbottom provided a further update on others returning from injury. “Morgan (Gibbs-White) has been back on the grass today,” he said.

“Conor (Hourihane) and Morgan didn’t train last week. We’re fine. George (Baldock) has had more training minutes in him, he’s looking good. Touch wood, everything at the minute is as good as it can be.”