Sheffield United rise no surprise - Smith

The Blades were promoted to England's second tier after their title win in League One last season.

They have won 12 of their 20 league matches this season and until recently were ahead of City in the table.

But that changed after Chris Wilder's side lost 3-1 to Millwall at the weekend, while City overturned Middlesbrough 2-1 at Ashton Gate.

The sides are now third and fourth respectively, with just goal difference separating them heading into the Friday night encounter at Bramall Lane.

Midfielder Smith told BCTV:  "It should be a great game!

"Sheffield United have been absolutely brilliant this year and fair play to them, they have really continued their form from last season.

"They have great players who work hard, as we do, so it should be an entertaining game."

NO SURPRISES

When asked if they have been one of the Championship's surprise packages, Smith said: "No, not really. They have good players, it's a great club, with a brilliant stadium.

"We know what football is like, it's not the first time someone has come up and really shown great form so fair play to them but on Friday we will be looking to get the three points ourselves.

"We're not looking at their form. We are concentrating on ourselves. We are playing well at the moment, have got back-to-back wins and we will go there and try to get the three points."

FA CUP THIRD ROUND REACTION

The draw for the Emirates FA Cup third round was made live on BBC and BT Sport on Monday night, with City drawn away to Watford.

It will be a repeat of the Carabao Cup second round tie after City travelled to Vicarage Road back in August. Lee Johnson's side stunned the Premier League outfit with a 3-2 victory that night.

Smith said: "Obviously we had Watford away in the Carabao Cup last time so it was interesting to draw them again. We beat them last time so we can go back there with positive energy and we will try to do that again."

FATHERHOOD

Everyone at Bristol City would like extend their congratulations to the 26-year-old and his partner following the birth of their second child, Marley.

"My other son is really enjoying having a little brother. It's amazing to be blessed with another son.

"I'm sure he will be getting a few Bristol City bibs or something. I don't think they do a shirt small enough for him," he said.