EFL midweek tips: Sharp and Bogle can frustrate Steve Bruce

Sheffield United v West Brom

The clash at Bramall Lane on Wednesday is an intriguing tussle between two teams that are looking to bounce straight back to the Premier League following relegation last season.

The Blades are stealthily making their way up the Championship with three consecutive wins and six in eight games since Paul Heckingbottom was appointed manager. Billy Sharp is now the top scorer in Championship history and has two in two, and he is at 2.68 to score at any time. Jayden Bogle has been key to the Blades’ improved form. He struck a fine goal last time out at Birmingham and is at 5.3 to score at any time.

The Baggies’ hopes of automatic promotion have receded with one win in seven and prompted the departure of manager Valerien Ismael. Steve Bruce has taken over at the helm and his first match in charge sees him return to the club where he began his managerial career. Their last away win came on 4 December and they are at 2.88 to win, with a draw at 3.2.

Tip: Back Billy Sharp to score anytime at 2.68

Coventry v Blackpool

The match pits two teams separated by goal difference, but still harbouring hopes of reaching the playoffs.

The Sky Blues stand eight points off the top six but have two games in hand on West Brom, who occupy the final play-off spot. Their form has been patchy but a win could hoist them to within touching distance depending on other results. Joint top scorer Viktor Gyokores has scored two in three in league and cup – which followed a barren run – and he is at 2.48 to score at any time.

The Seasiders are unbeaten in four, including three wins, and drew at table-toppers Fulham in their last game on the road. A draw is at 3.55 while, with the sides as likely to concede as score, both teams to score and over 2.5 goals is at 2.48.

Tip: Back both teams to score and over 2.5 goals at 2.48

AFC Wimbledon v Rotherham

Eighteen sides and 31 points separate these teams and regardless of the outcome, the Millers will remain top of League One.

Wimbledon are just one place and one point above the drop zone with six points from 10 games. They last won on 7 December and are at 5.7 for victory. They have scored five in their last three games and both teams to score and over 2.5 goals is at 2.3.

Paul Warne’s side have won four straight league games and have a six-point lead over Wigan at the top of the table although the Latics have two games in hand. Rotherham have not conceded in four games and are at 2.56 to win to nil.

Tip: Back Rotherham to win to nil at 2.56

Forest Green Rovers v Rochdale

Forest Green appear to be heading towards League One while Rochdale are eight points above the drop zone.

Rovers have not been beaten since 9 October and have lost only twice all season. They have a 10-point cushion over Tranmere at the top of League Two and are at 4.2 to win both halves. The hosts have conceded two goals in eight games since a 5-5 draw with Oldham, and are at 2.66 to win to nil.

Rochdale appear to be safe in 18^th although a further cushion from the bottom two would be welcome. They have drawn their last three games and a stalemate is at 3.55.

Tip: Back Forest Green to win both halves at 4.2