Sheffield United star named in Alan Shearer's team of the week following fine showing against Crystal Palace

In his weekly team of the week selection, former Newcastle United and England star Alan Shearer found room for George Baldock in the starting XI, after he managed to keep the Eagles' star attacking Wilfried Zaha under wraps, and ensure his side strolled away with a clean sheet and the three points.

The Blades' wing-back was fielded alongside Everton's Yerry Mina, Wolves' Conor Coady, Chelsea's Antonio Rudiger and Spurs' Japhet Tanganga in defence.

Meanwhile, three Liverpool players made the cut in Jordan Henderson, Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino. Spurs’ Steven Bergwijn and their veteran goalkeeper Hugo Lloris were also included.

Next up, Sheffield United host Bournemouth, in the last game before their brief winter break.

With teams around them finding it impossible to put a consistent run of form together, and the Blades having already played a number of their most tricky fixtures this season, qualification for European football remains a distinct possibility.

United will also look to achieve success in the FA Cup, and could book their place in the quarter-finals of the competition when they take on the winner of Reading and Cardiff City later in the month.

The Blades famously made it to the semi-finals in 2014, and will be eager to go a step further and lift the iconic trophy for the first time since 1925.