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Posted Wednesday, September 12th 2018 @CrawleyJames92

In brief: Pre-Sheffield United (H)

Wednesday, September 12th 2018

Head coach Lee Johnson and forward Marley Watkins look ahead to City's home fixture with Sheffield United.

Below is a summary of what he had to say ahead of Saturday's (September 15th, 3pm kick-off) Sky Bet Championship clash.

Discussing new training facilities at Failand, Johnson said it is something the entire City needs
He believes it will help local players go on to perform at the "elite level" and it can help City reach the Premier League
The City head coach had high praise for Marley Watkins, saying he is a trustworthy player who works extremely hard for the team
The challenge now after the international break is to find the momentum
He is looking forward to a "top-six, big game" when the Blades travel to BS3 this weekend
He anticipates an "open, attacking game" but he's not frightened by their strengths
He "has a lot of respect" for Sheffield United and sees similarities in their setup
Johnson says both sides have added to the depth of their squads and the game could be "a marker going forward"
He said Tyreeq Bakinson is playing well and he is delighted the midfielder has scored his first league goal out on loan
All players who have returned from international duty have reported back unscathed

He said it felt great to score last time out (in the 4-1 win v Blackburn Rovers) and he hopes it will give him added confidence
Watkins saw the international break as a "positive" and refreshing"
He said City have to keep pushing and not get complacent after three wins on the bounce
He described City as a "special club" in "a special city"
The winger was able to get some time away to rest up during the international
Lee Johnson is "right up there" as one of the most influential managers