Sharp netted the opener from the spot in the 10th minute after being brought down by Kyle McFadzean, before Matt Palmer equalised for the host with a 25-yard strike.

The Blades captain converted a Mark Duffy delivery to restore the lead three minutes later, and Leon Clarke wrapped up the win with a second-half header, having earlier hit the post.

The result moves Chris Wilder's men a point clear of Wolves at the summit, with the deposed leaders set to travel to Reading on Saturday, although their joy was tempered by an injury - thought to be a broken leg - that saw Paul Coutts taken to hospital.

Burton, meanwhile, has now lost five consecutive home matches and sits one point clear of the relegation zone.

Bolton Wanderers, meanwhile, missed an opportunity to climb out of the drop zone after being held to a goalless draw by Preston North End at Deepdale.