Sheffield United handed major boost in play-off pursuit as Luton Town hit for seven by Fulham

Sheffield United have been handed a huge boost in their pursuit of a play-off place thanks to Luton Town’s 7-0 defeat at Fulham this evening. The Hatters had entered the match above United on goals scored, but their heavy loss at Craven Cottage means the Blades have now moved up to fifth ahead of what could be a very dramatic final day of the season.

An injury decimated Luton side were torn apart for much of the 90 minutes after Tom Cairney’s goal on the half hour mark. Kenny Tete, Fabio Carvalho, Aleksandar Mitrovic (2), Jean Michael Seri and Bobby Reid were also on the scoresheet for Marco Silva’s side, in what could be a very damaging result for the Hatters.

Luton now have a significantly inferior goal difference of seven to Paul Heckingbottom’s side, putting them in pole position to finish in the play-off places. United host Championship title winners Fulham at Bramall Lane on Saturday and know that all they have to do is match Luton’s result with Reading in order to secure a spot in the top six.

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The heavy defeat for Nathan Jones’ side also brings both Middlesbrough and Millwall very much into play. Should Boro better Luton’s result on the final day then they would secure a top six finish and but for a major goal difference swing with Millwall, would also confirm Blades’ spot.

Milwall, meanwhile, will have to win their trip to Bournemouth, while hope Boro fail to win at Preston and Luton lose to Reading to finish in the top six. The Blades will be hoping they can finish the job off at the weekend.