CHRIS Maguire is on a mission to ensure Sheffield United’s fans remain unhappy with their start to the season when Oxford United visit today.

Former U’s manager Chris Wilder is still waiting for his first competitive win as Blades boss and the pre-season title favourites go into this afternoon’s clash at Bramall Lane bottom of Sky Bet League One.

Maguire spent three seasons playing for their bitter rivals Sheffield Wednesday and still has a house in the city.

He is acutely aware of the mood among the hosts’ supporters – and knows a good start for the visitors could pile on the pressure.

“They have a big support and the fans aren’t happy,” United’s No 10 said.

“I still live up there. I’m not going to give my address in case I score, but I see a lot of the press up there.

“It’s up to us to go there and make sure their fans aren’t happy after the game as well.

“If we come out and are positive like other teams have been going there then the crowd will get on their backs and it will only drive us forward.”

Maguire was quick to point out Wednesday were always in a higher division than United during his time at Hillsborough, so missed out on playing in a ‘Steel City Derby’.

But after receiving well wishes from Wednesday fans all week, the 27-year-old is relishing the hostile reception Blades fans will give him.

He said: “I’m sure I’ll get a warm welcome there.

“I thrive off things like that and if they do (boo me) I’m sure I’ll be on top of my game.”

He added: “The atmosphere will be good and it would be a great place to win a game of football.

“That’s exactly what we’re going there to do.”

Phil Edwards is expected to return at right back in place of Sam Long after being cup-tied for the midweek defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion.

Maguire and Alex MacDonald were rested for the EFL Cup game and are set to return, although Joe Rothwell’s display may have given head coach Michael Appleton cause to think twice.

New signing Ryan Ledson, who will miss next week’s games against Exeter and Rochdale after being called up by England U20s, is likely to be on the bench.

The hosts are without striker Marc McNulty (hamstring) but midfielder John Fleck (groin) is in contention to return.

TODAY’S SQUADS

Sheffield Utd: from Moore, Hussey, O’Connell, Wilson, Freeman, Duffy, Basham, Fleck, Scougall, Clarke, Sharp, Done, Chapman, Coutts, Whiteman, Wallace, Wright, Ramsdale.

Oxford Utd: from Eastwood, Edwards, Dunkley, Skarz, Ruffels, MacDonald, Sercombe, Lundstram, Maguire, Thomas, Hemmings, Taylor, Crowley, T Roberts, Rothwell, Ledson, Martin, Long, Buchel.