Sheffield United v Leeds United: Billy Sharp to put Liam Cooper friendship on hold at Bramall Lane

Leeds United club captain Cooper looks set to start the fixture and could be pitted up against close friend Sharp if the striker is recalled to the starting line-up by Chris Wilder.

The pair became close friends during Sharp's 11 month spell at Elland Road over the course of the 2014/15 season in which the 32-year-old featured 35 times in all competitions scoring five times.

Cooper and the Blades forward remain close friends but Sharp says that their friendship will be put on hold this weekend for 90 minutes as they go head-to-head in the much-anticipated Championship clash.

"I spoke to him on Saturday but I have not spoken to him since we both won the games in midweek," Sharp said of his friendship with the 27-year-old.

"I am sure we will have a text and one maybe afterwards. He is probably the only one there now from when I was there.

"He loves playing for Leeds, I know that and he signed a new contract not long ago and is captain of the club.

"He has told me that the manager has been really good in terms of their regime, structure and play and how they go about it. They will be looking forward to the game just as much as we are. It has all the ingredients for a great game."