A tough Boxing Day game awaits the Sky Blues as high flying Sheffield United make their last league visit to Highfield Road.
The Blades have shot up the table after a seven match unbeaten run and City manager Peter Reid is fully aware that the City players will have to keep their wits about them if they are to take anything from the game, saying: “Sheffield United are a big club, they're in very good form right now, and if we could get three points from them it would be a tremendous boost. "I'm sure we can.”
The Sky Blues have Michael Doyle back from a one game suspension and have defenders Adie Williams and Dean Leacock both available. Williams missed the win over Watford with a hamstring injury and a bout of tonsillitis whilst Leacock is back in training after ending his compassionate leave.
Whilst Reid may decide to change the team, United boss Neil Warnock is like to keep faith with the side that beat Cardiff City 2-1 last weekend. Danny Culip who joined The Blades from Brighton is expected to keep his place after impressing in his debut.
Warnock has signed Chinese international Hao Haidong for symbolic one pound transfer fee from Dalian Shide. The 34 year old is expected to be given a coaching role at Brammal Lane but is not likely to feature in the match at Highfield Road.
The good news for City supporters is that Jack Lester who always scores against City either at first team or reserve team level is definitely out.
Sheffield United won the corresponding fixture last season 1-0 exactly a year to the day.
Some tickets are available, 17,000 have already been sold to City supporters, so supporters without a ticket and wishing to go are advised to get to the ticket office early to avoid missing out.
Travel Coventry have announced that there will be some buses running in Coventry on Boxing Day. It will be a very limited service which will run between 10am and 6pm. The 13C,27,33A and 36C services which run close to the ground,all will be in operation. Flat fares apply all day: Adult £1.00 Child 50p. TWM Daysavers are available and travel cards and passes will be accepted.
You can expect to pay double time for taxis.