SHEFFIELD United will send a side to take on 1874 Northwich as part of their preparations for next season.

The Blades, scheduled to play the first leg of their League One promotion play-off semi final at home to Swindon Town on Thursday, are due at Barton Stadium for a friendly at the end of July.

It is the only chance 1874 supporters have to watch their team play in Winsford before their second campaign in the North West Counties League Premier Division starts in August.

Boss Ian Street has this week confirmed an initial list of six warm-up matches, starting with trips to Division One outfits Irlam and then Eccleshall, now managed by former Rudheath Social chief Steve Lloyd.

A visit to neighbours Middlewich Town, who secured third place in Cheshire League One at the weekend, follows.

After facing Sheffield, 1874 will complete their summer programme with matches at Northern Premier League top-flight club Skelmersdale and Welsh second tier outfit Conwy.

The first league encounter follows on Saturday, August 8.

Fixtures

Wednesday, July 15 Friendly (7.30pm)

Irlam v 1874 Northwich

Saturday, July 18 Friendly (3pm)

Eccleshall v 1874 Northwich

Wednesday, July 22 Friendly (7pm)

Middlewich Town v 1874 Northwich

Saturday, July 25 Friendly (3pm)

1874 Northwich v Sheffield United

Tuesday, July 28 Friendly (7.30pm)

Skelmersdale United v 1874 Northwich

Saturday, August 1 Friendly (2pm)

Conwy Borough v 1874 Northwich