The January transfer window was an opportunity for Sheffield United to build on an up-and-down season that can still see them make the playoffs. A shaky start has since led to a run of six wins in the last eight games amidst a lengthy break to COVID suspensions. With an important run ahead, it was vital for the Blades to make the right additions to their squad but also trim the fat.
On paper, it feels like they have. A bloated attack has now been reduced, with the departures of Lys Mousset and Oliver Burke to Salernitana and Millwall. The Frenchman displayed promise in his debut season after a ten million move, with six goals in the Premier League, but has struggled to keep fit. Despite three goals this season, he has played just under 600 minutes in the last one and a half years, and with an expiring contract, will have played his last game. Burke has also found it difficult to capture his early career promise and produce attacking returns despite being a willing member of the squad.
One other key departure was of the loanee Robin Olsen, a keeper with European pedigree who found it difficult to adjust to the league and conceded 17 goals in 11 games. There were also departures for squad members Luke Freeman, Adlene Guedioura, Michael Verrips and youngsters Zak Brunt and Regan Slater.
The squad is now lean and balanced. Adam Davies arrived from Stoke on a six-month deal to provide Wes Foderingham competition in goal. Charlie Goode was the key addition from Brentford on loan. The 26-year-old centre-back has played less than he would like in the last two seasons but will now provide competition at the back.
Having kept hold of Morgan Gibbs-White on loan, crucial to their aspirations, they have also recalled Daniel Jebbison from Burton Albion after an injury to Rhian Brewster. Crucially, the Blades have cut a considerable amount in wages. It is certainly a positive for the club, which is now better off both on and off-field. They’re now better equipped in the run-in and will hope to make a late charge for the play-offs.
