Blackburn Rovers now have complete clarity on what must happen for them to reach the Championship play-off on final day.
Valerien Ismael's side have kept their season alive until matchday 46 after a run of four successive wins. That has put them in contention for what seemed like an unlikely top-six finish.
Their task is relatively simple. First and foremost, they have to win against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane. A draw is not enough under any circumstance for Rovers due to Coventry hosting Middlesbrough.
That is easier said than done, of course. The Blades have run Leeds United and Burnley close for automatic promotion and in many other years, their 89 points, with a game to spare, would be enough for a top-two finish.
READ MORE: Tyrhys Dolan contract reality as Blackburn Rovers boss makes 'big money' claim
United have lost four games on their own patch this term so they are not insurmountable. They rested a few players in the 2-0 win over Stoke City last weekend and so it will be interesting to see what strength of side Chris Wilder names.
Should Rovers beat Blades, they also need two favours. Ironically, that could come from Burnley and Preston North End.
Two of Bristol City, Coventry City and Millwall must fail to win for Rovers to finish sixth. There are two play-off places up for grabs on the final day after the Robins were hammered 4-0 by Leeds United. That now means Rovers will finish above Bristol City on goal difference if they draw and Ismael's men win thanks to that swing on Monday night.
All five teams go into the final day all knowing they must win to secure a play-off berth, which adds to the excitement. Coventry host Boro, Bristol City play Preston and Millwall travel to Burnley.
One factor in Rovers' favour is they are the only side facing an opponent with nothing tangible to play for. Sheffield United will finish third regardless of Saturday's result and Wilder could, therefore, rest players for the play-offs.
There is a psychological element to consider, though, as Rovers would likely play them over two legs if they sneaked into the top-six.
Blackburn could still finish fifth too. If they win and all three of Bristol City, Coventry and Millwall fail to win, it would be Sunderland that Ismael's men would be competing with in the play-offs.
Share