Neil Harris has demanded a strong mentality from his Cambridge United players as they prepare to face Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough on Tuesday night. The U's travel north looking to respond after a 3-2 home defeat to Plymouth Argyle ended their impressive 10-match unbeaten streak across all competitions.

Harris, whose side sits sixth in League One with 20 points from 12 games, knows the challenge awaiting them. "I want to bounce back, and to see a strong mentality because we’re going up against a team that is hurting," the manager said. Sheffield Wednesday, currently eighth and two points behind Cambridge, have lost their last two matches 2-0 and have appointed Matt Hamshaw as temporary manager following Henrik Pedersen's departure.

League context

Tuesday's fixture is key for the momentum of both clubs. Cambridge United's promotion last season was built on the best defensive record in the EFL, but they have kept just one clean sheet this term. That came against Blackpool, who played over 80 minutes with ten men. The U's recent form reads three wins, one draw, and one loss from their last five, a sequence you can review on our fixtures page. Their last outing saw them concede three at home for the first time this season, with goals from Sullay Kaikai and Shayne Lavery not enough to prevent a 3-2 loss.

Facing a wounded opponent

Sheffield Wednesday's consecutive defeats, including a derby loss to Doncaster Rovers, mean they will be desperate to respond in front of their own fans. Harris acknowledged the threat, stating he knows what to expect and needs his team to stand up to the challenge. Cambridge will likely field another young side, with six players under 24 starting against Plymouth, including goalscorer Lavery. The Northern Irish striker has been in good form, also netting in the 2-2 draw with Wycombe Wanderers. Following this trip, Cambridge United's next fixture is at home to Charlton Athletic on Saturday, 30 October.

With the league table so tight, a positive result could see Cambridge solidify their top-six position. They currently trail leaders Huddersfield Town by five points but have a game in hand on several teams above them. The match kicks off at Hillsborough on Tuesday, 27 October.

More detail at Cambridge Independent