QPR manager Neil Warnock is relishing a return to former club Sheffield United today in the Coca-Cola Championship.

Warnock has made an impressive start to his Loftus Road career, with successive home victories over West Brom and Plymouth.

However, the self-confessed Blades fan is expecting a tough time at Bramall Lane, believing ninth-placed United to be a formidable outfit in front of their own supporters.

Warnock, 61, said: ‘‘They’re a very strong side at home.

They’re only four points off the play-offs, so they’re still in the mix.’’ Warnock, who spent sevenand- a half seasons at United, added: ‘‘I’ve always got a decent reception from the Blades fans...it’s always a great day out for me. It will be an emotional occasion.’’ Blades boss Kevin Blackwell has been cheered by injury updates surrounding Ched Evans, Lee Williamson and Jamie Ward, who all went off in the defeat at Peterborough.

West Brom and Nottingham Forest will be aiming to keep up the pressure on Newcastle.

Roberto di Matteo’s Baggies host Blackpool, while Billy Davies’ Forest team travel to Preston.

At the other end of the table, the bottom five teams are all away from home.

Rock-bottom Peterborough travel to 19th-placed Watford, who are just two points above the relegation zone after a run of two victories in 13 matches.

Coventry, just outside the play-off zone after five wins in six games, are at home to second bottom Plymouth, while Sheffield Wednesday – who occupy the third relegation spot – travel to promotion hopefuls Swansea.