STUART McCall returns to Sheffield United today insisting: "These games are what you play football for."

The former Blades midfielder and assistant manager is excited by the prospect of City locking horns with League One's top team.

McCall said: "Everyone should relish being involved. It's going to be a terrific game with a great atmosphere.

"They can be relaxed a little bit but we need to be right at it, although I'm sure they will be as well. But it's going to be a fantastic occasion."

James Hanson will return for the hosts after missing Friday's win at Port Vale as a precaution with a tight calf.

Rory McArdle admits it will be strange going head-to-head with his long-time Valley Parade team-mate.

"I'm only used to playing against him in training and obviously it's always a little bit friendlier," said the City defender.

"It will be weird seeing him in a different shirt – but that's part and parcel of football.

"You see players move on so quickly nowadays but he was part of the furniture. He probably still is somewhere!

"It will be good to see him but as soon as you're on the pitch, all that will be forgotten about and he's just another opponent.

"At least we'll be prepared for him at set-pieces. If anyone knows how Hans is like, it should be us."

Blades boss Chris Wilder may play three up front with Hanson and Billy Sharp playing either side of the in-form Leon Clarke, who has scored three goals in his last three games.

Wilder said: "We are two proper, honest football clubs who play the game the right way and with the right attitude.

"Stuart's connection with the club will earn him the respect that he deserves."