Walsall go to Sheffield United in the Carabao Cup with no fear – Jon Whitney

The Saddlers head to Bramall Lane in the first round of the newly-branded Carabao Cup in search of a fourth consecutive victory over United, who won promotion to The Championship as League One champions last season.

Whitney’s side enjoyed EFL Trophy success and back-to-back league triumphs over the Blades.

“Bramall Lane is always a great place to go and play,” said Whitney.

“Off the back of last season we go there with no fear, having beaten them in the league and cup.

“They were deserved champions last season and I am sure Chris (Wilder) will strengthen to compete in the Championship.

“It’s an excellent opportunity for us to express ourselves in front of a large crowd at one of the homes of English football.”

The pair meet in the northern section of the competition, which is under new sponsorship from next season after last season’s moniker of the EFL Cup.

The best run in the competition in Walsall’s 129-year history came in the 1983/84 season, where they made the semi-finals.

The tie will be played on either Tuesday, August 8 or Wednesday, August 9 at Bramall Lane.

Wilder’s side will feature in England’s second tier next season for the first time since the 2010/11 season. They spent six years in League One before clinching the title.