Birmingham City v Sheffield United, 12.45pm

Birmingham will not hand a debut to Quincy Owusu-Abeyie, their new signing, due to a lack of match fitness, but Radhi Jaidi is in contention after recovering from a hamstring strain. Sheffield United are missing James Beattie (knee) and Keith Gillespie (ankle ligaments). Both will be out for at least another month.

Blackpool v Bristol City, 3pm

Simon Grayson, the Blackpool manager, must choose between Matt Gilks and Paul Rachubka as his number one goalkeeper. Stephen Crainey is out with a groin strain. Bristol City are without Scott Murray (wrist), Jordan Walker (leg) and Marvin Elliott (knee).

Cardiff City v Southampton, 3pm

Cardiff are without Tony Capaldi, who is recuperating from a cartilage operation, and have doubts over Paul Parry (muscle strain) and Jay Bothroyd (match fitness). Southampton are missing Andrew Davies, who is recovering from surgery on a broken leg, but Tommy Forecast, the goalkeeper, is in line to make his debut after moving from Tottenham Hotspur.

Charlton Athletic v Swansea City, 3pm

Mark Hudson is expected to make his debut in the Charlton defence debut after overcoming an ankle injury. The goalkeeper Nicky Weaver is also likely to be fit following a knee problem. Swansea are without Angel Rangel and Gorka Pintado, but Jason Scotland has recovered from a stomach operation.

Coventry City v Norwich City, 3pm

Clinton Morrison is expected to make his debut for Coventry after completing his move from Crystal Palace. The forward may partner Leon McKenzie in attack. Norwich are likely to include the new signing Arturo Lupoli in their squad, although he lacks match fitness.

Crystal Palace v Watford, 3pm

James Scowcroft should be fit to start for Crystal Palace, despite missing most of the club’s pre-season friendlies through injury. Neil Danns and Lee Hills are still absent. Al Bangura is unlikely to feature for Watford after being sent home from the club’s pre-season tour due to a breach of discipline. Otherwise, the visitors are at full strength.