Tim Sherwood makes Manchester United claim after what he saw at Leeds

Leeds United have been on an unstoppable run of form lately as promotion to the Premier League edges closer into sight.

Supporters and pundits alike have been thoroughly impressed with the performances of Daniel Farke's men, who have shown themselves to be the most star-studded squad in the division.

The likes of Joel Piroe, Dan James and Manor Solomon have excelled in attack, while the defence have remained largely resolute and more are taking notice by the day.

Sherwood makes bold Man United claim about Leeds

Leeds United have to wait until Monday for their fixture in this round of games, and it doesn't come much bigger in the EFL.

A titanic visit to Bramall Lane to take on Sheffield United will see the winner top the table heading into the rest of the week, a contest Tim Sherwood, speaking on Sky Sports (22 February, 12:34), describes as a "cup final".

Sherwood also went as far as to suggest there are players in the Leeds squad who could get into the team of bitter rivals Manchester United, who were at the time playing out a dramatic 2-2 draw with Everton at Goodison Park.

Ruben Amorim's side are a lowly 15th in the Premier League table with just 12 games remaining.

"We've just talked about Man United. On the evidence of what we've seen, some of these Leeds players could play for Man United," Sherwood claimed.

"Bombing forward, nice and secure at the back - they've got the whole package, especially in the Championship.

"If they win [at Sheffield United], one 'cup final', they will win [the league] at a canter and parade to the finishing line."

Farke's men have to sustain the challenge to game 46

Last season saw Leeds United geared up to gain automatic promotion, only to slow down and let the candle burn out too early.

The Whites were forced to settle for a play-off place despite having scooped 90 points and suffered heartache late last May at Wembley against a Southampton side who have since been utterly abject in the top flight.

This term seems different, even despite the small, compact squad Farke has. The manager knows this is his second and final chance, and fans have witnessed some of the most potent attacking football the league has ever seen.

By beating Sheffield United on Monday, Leeds can stamp down a real marker as kings of the EFL; losing in South Yorkshire would be a bitter pill to swallow and there would be a real need to immediately recover.

Those derbies against Manchester United could well be just months away.