Season Review / School Report 24/25: Part 5 - Midfield

[Deadbat]

2024/25 SUFC SEASON REVIEW / SCHOOL REPORT: Part 5





Midfield



Vinicius Souza Another player that I had panned for his performances, inability to lead and at times visibly poor language in the Premier League (see Ahmedhodzic Anel). I was ready for him to move on and get what we had paid and just put it down to another transfer (with most of the rest last summer) that had simply not worked. Unlike Trusty, Traore, Larouci, Slimane etc, Souza did show flashes. At times he looked strong, decent on the ball and got around the pitch. I never felt he was useless as footballer but he would impact games in a positive way consistently and would go missing at times I felt. I wrote last year in my summary: ‘He was by no means one of the worst players but was distinctly average and was not that quick, strong or good in the air – despite his impressive size/physique. He remained in the side for the most part despite not really standing out but we had so little behind him to compete. He did have a few decent games but these were few and far between. Wilder came in and the first period we saw a bit of an uplift but once again we saw a lot of times where we would lose a goal and he would throw his arms up in the air or shout at others. He did not seem to take much responsibility at all. We did have a few good games after Xmas and was superb at Luton – his best game for the club where he scored a goal too- his only one but he could not maintain this form and Wilder started to get frustrated with his lack of really contributing anything. He only has picked up 2 bookings all season which says it all about his level of commitment. He started to annoy players with his finger pointing and gesticulating but not actually doing anything meaningful. We had arguments with players and nearly a fight with Robinson at Wolves! He then made the ridiculous claim that he would probably be in the Brazil squad if he played with better players/we kept the ball more. Which is laughable from a player that has been a regular in two straight relegation sides.’ I went on to conclude: ‘We need to move him on somehow this summer. I do not even think he would be a success in the Championship as it is a physical league and he barely tackles/gets challenges in and also his lack of running power means he would struggle with the two weekly games that often happen.



So, the fact he was still here and we got no takers (cannot recall many serious bids or interest but maybe there was an I have forgotten) was distinctly underwhelming. However, he seemed to be committed to the cause in terms of how he did in pre-season and looked like he wanted to right some of the wrongs from last season. Began in central midfield with Arblaster and we had an excellent start. He dominated midfield and those comments above about him struggling in a more physical league could not be further from what happened as he looked so strong, imposing and often swatted other midfielders aside as physically they could not cope with size, strength and strong running. He looked excellent on the ball, using it simply but also driving forward and the partnership with him and Arblaster. United generally seemed much more up for the battle and we had several skirmishes and fines – but at least showed a different attitude to last year – albeit versus weaker sides. There were several games we completely controlled midfield and recall strong away wins at Hull and Blackburn, where he looked a cut above. I was surprised at how good on the ball he looked and he often came out of tight areas with lovely skill. The game against Wednesday he was very good and dominated the midfield- two or three times he just shoved one of our rivals’ players off it and came out with the ball – to large cheers from the crowd. The fans had been turned around – he suddenly became popular and shows if a player puts effort in, plays well, the supporters will respond positively. He was a key man in our run to the top. He did pick up a few silly bookings (not as silly as Hamer) and then got some knocks too. After Arblaster went out, he helped Peck settle in and we did not really miss a beat in terms of results even if the midfield maybe lacked the balance of before.



He missed a few games before Xmas and we definitely missed him and then after he came back got a more serious injury against Burnley and he was out for a fair while. We kind of muddled through with Davies doing ok for a spell and Choudhury coming in, but we were not as strong in this area with him out. He came back at Derby and played with Choudhury but this did not really work as a partnership I felt – although he was superb in the defeat to Leeds and I thought the best midfielder on the pitch that evening. However, he was still not right physically it seemed and was out again with more issues with his hamstring- and it was fair to say his season had been stop start since the Xmas period. He returned as sub in a few games but looked off the pace and picked up another knock seemingly against Millwall but carried on and surprised he was not rested more after we could not get up automatically but brought back in for the final few games but seemed to lack the explosiveness we saw from earlier in the season. I thought he found his form for the two Bristol City games and looked to have the power and presence back and was my man of the match in the second leg. I wanted to see him really assert himself at Wembley but after a good opening, he faded badly and saw signs of the old Souza, waving his arms and not leading by example as the game got away from us.



Overall, he has had a season of redemption and but for the injuries would be a contender for player of the season. He was superb up to Xmas and did not have many poor games and helped two young players develop a partnership with him – Arblaster and Peck. After he started to miss, I felt our performances and control of the midfield was not as decisive and it became a bit of a struggle. Choudhury was ok but did not quite have the presence and mobility of Souza. Souza showed a good range of tackling, pressing, interceptions (defensive work) as he got around the pitch but also was good on the ball and involved going both ways. In some games, he seemed to be everywhere in that early season run. His grade is affected by his lack of availability and never seemed to put more than a few games together after he went out against Burnley at the Lane. He managed a run up the end of the season though and was solid enough if not spectacular.



He also does not score or offer much in terms of setting up goals and teams tend to look at stats like these. Be interesting to see what happens moving forward – I now have seen enough to suggest that he would be ok at a higher level, if at the right club and surrounded by better players (I look at likes of Billing, Yates, Will Hughes, Doucoure as reference points as busy, competitive midfielders who do just fine at middling Prem clubs). So, I think we would make our money back (maybe more) if he decided to move on. We do have Arblaster and Peck in there so would not be a disaster and it might be we cannot retain him now we have failed to go up. I would not have a problem with the club/player if this happened but equally if he stayed then would be a great asset again at this level – has another 2 years left on his contract too.



Grade B (Last season E-)



Gustavo Hamer I gave him player of the season last time out but my C (highest mark for any player!) seems very harsh on reflection. I did feel he started well but trailed off and then despite some moments where he showed class he kind of got lost in the mess around him. He was one of our stand outs though but I did write I did not think another Premier League club would sign him – the type of clubs who might be interested would be the promoted ones but then would see he had been part of a team going down and had not competed at all – and he was one of our main players. Hamer showed though he had a lot of talent – his ability and skill on the ball stood out in a sea of dross around him. He scored some good goals early on and had that bit of class that maybe if we more of, around him, we might have competed better. I felt his conditioning and him being a bit top heavy meant teams would feel he could not get enough the pitch enough and he lacked the discipline to do the other parts of the game – and indeed consistency in his performances. However, despite this there was some rumoured interest but it was Leeds who seemed to be the side that was being linked the most and you were concerned that our board might do what they did with Bogle – and take the money. There was talk of a clause where in the right circumstances he could leave but it went past this date and so he remained.



He began the season linking well with O’Hare in those early games – renewing the relationship with his former teammate -and scored a brilliant goal at Preston to seal a win on opening night. He followed it up with another smart finish v QPR. Quickly, it seemed he would just stand out like a beacon at this level. His ability to find space and a moment to set up or score a goal became a feature as we had tight games but then the likes of Hamer would just find that moment of magic and we would nick such matches. Scored another brilliant finish at Hull and then a free kick to win a game v Derby at the Lane. At times he would give it away and tried to do too much but that was the type of player he was. It became apparent Wilder played him on the left side as he maybe lacked the defensive discipline to play centrally but at times did become marginalised being out here and at times you wondered if he would become more effective in a 10 role or even in a two. His range of passing and his unique ability to go past a man in tight areas (often with a nutmeg or a jink) meant he looked too good for this level in many games and the phrase ‘Championship cheat code’ that we have heard aimed at players like Mitrovic in that past, was used by pundits. He did work hard in games and get back and press and at times surprised with his ling bursting runs back and front.



He was involved in a lot of our good attacking play and often when he got the ball, things would happen. He would always be forward thinking. There were odd off games and recall in the bigger games (Burnley, Leeds etc) that he would not step up and I used the phrase flat (flat not fat!) track bully a few times to describe him. The other issues was his stupid decision making when lunging in or tackling often when he had no chance of getting the ball or did not want to run back – meaning he got a series of ridiculous yellow cards and got suspensions throughout the season.



After a run without scoring, he got goals v Plymouth, Watford and Portsmouth but did pick up as many yellow cards as assists/goals around this period. I thought he had a bit of a drop off but still was the man, even in a quiet game, where you sensed he might just produce something. The goal against his former club Coventry was superb – his second free kick of the season, that he scored with. I was disappointed he did not get games by the scruff of the neck versus Oxford, Millwall and Plymouth where we needed just those moments to decide tight games. He played well, and scored against Cardiff but another stupid booking at Burnley and then he was taken out to avoid suspension. Flitted in and out of the games against Bristol City but still had big moments and scored a goal and was involved in some of our good moments even if not as involved/consistent as you would hope. Had the assist at Wembley but again did he do enough and again went off injured. Seems to be unable to stay fit or last the course even though he is clearly our most creative player and best outfield player.





He has another two years left and I am sure he may want to move on now – it is frustrating as I felt if he had stepped up, maybe we would have gone up when we were in such a good position but now we remain in the championship – he has to think about his future. I would of course rather keep him as he is one of our better players and I actually still wonder whether he has enough in his all-around game (consistency, conditioning and discipline) to play top level –whether he is one of those that is too good for this league but maybe not quite good enough for the league above – you wonder where he would actually play positionally and what his potential is – in terms of how far he could play. I saw some links with PSV (with his Dutch links) and think he may be better in a league where it is not as quick and he has more time on the ball but I could be wrong? We will wait and see but I would be probably more surprised if he remains and those Leeds links might come to fruition again also perhaps?



Grade B+ (Last season C)



Oliver Arblaster Arblaster’s rise from a promising young player who did very well on loan at Port Vale, to a first team starter and then captain in the Premier League was remarkable. However, those that had seen him come through the ranks (including yours truly in a smattering of games) from a 16-year-old excelling for the u18’s and then a stand out at u21 level even at 17 and 18 were not that surprised. He always was the one the academy and club had high hopes for. He was in and around the Championship squad and played 4 games in the promotion campaign such was the potential that the club felt he had. He was allowed to go out with Port Vale and was a stand out here earning rave reviews. With United struggling and Wilder back, the youngster was recalled and given his bow when the season was almost beyond the Blades. He came on against Arsenal and then quickly got into the side and played in many of the remaining games against sides like Man Utd, Liverpool, Newcastle and Chelsea. I recall him being superb in the latter game and against multi-million-pound opponents, he actually was as good, if not better. He ended the season as one of our few bright spots and was getting interest from clubs in the Premier League but started this season remaining as captain.



He scored his first goal at Deepdale and gave a mature performance and his early season form was very good as he scored again at Norwich. His ability to just keep the game simple but almost always tried to be positive as he would take the ball on the half turn and move into midfield and help kick start the attacks. He combined well with Souza as United controlled many of the early games in midfield. Loved the fact he always wanted to the ball and found space to get it and come out of areas. Seemed to have that unique ability to let the game come to him.



He did have a few poor games -recall him not being in the games at Leeds and Boro – the first two defeats of the season. He was rested for the game at Ashton Gate but came on and played the calm and composed ball that led to the late Burrows winner but then as he captained his club in the Sheffield Derby, picked up a knock. He tried to play on but in hindsight maybe should not have done but the game was so big for him, and for us. After he went off, it was revealed after scans that he had ruptured his ACL – a season ending injury. This was a huge blow for him and the team. We did see Peck step up and Davies came back into the side – with Choudhury also having an impact but he was missed.



His playing style means he kind of slows things down and makes the game go at his pace. He never panics and he seems to be able to take a few touches and move out of space or into areas where he can then make decisions, taking it away from opponents. Just has a good football brain. We saw various videos of is recovery and some suggested he may even get back before the end of the season – but it is safe to say the sensible option was for him to be involved for preseason training and ready to come back. It was a nasty injury and so it may take him some time to get back to the excellent form he showed before he got injured but with Peck around, we can be patient but also be excited about both of them and their future – hopefully both at the Lane. Seems to be someone who could be a long serving captain and talisman for the club. Interesting that he is supposedly dating the manager’s daughter too! Don’t know whether that might help or hinder him?! Suppose it depends if he stays with her! Good to see him cheering on the lads in the crowd in the playoffs – with Wilder Jr!



Grade B (Last season B)

 

[Deadbat]

Callum O’Hare O’Hare had always looked an intelligent and exciting footballer whenever I saw him play for Coventry. I recall in the Hecky promotion season him being excellent in a big win against us at their place – this was after previously suffering a bad injury at the Lane in a previous fixture. He did have a few injuries and last season remember seeing him at Chesterfield (alongside Simon Moore) for their u21’s in a game against United. He still showed the dribbling and technical ability I recalled. He was slightly petulant at times and maybe thought he was a bit better than he was (I said to my wife that his look and style made me think of him as a crapper Grealish) but he got back in the City side and scored a few goals as they flirted with the playoffs. He was out of contract and noises were he may get a Premier League side but whether he did or not, it seemed he would got to a better placed side/club (no offence to Coventry) and wanted to test himself at a higher level. The Sky Blues had lost Hamer to us and Gyokeres too and maybe did not quite have the finances to push on for the top flight? Leeds were linked with him and a few others so I was surprised when out of the blue, we signed him last summer. Seemed an exciting signing and one that was a bit of a coup. He was certainly a top-level Championship player I felt – despite what Coventry fans said about him being up and down and thinking he was better than he was (exactly what I felt maybe as outlined above!). I always thought he was a clever player who got into those areas to make and score goals. Could dribble, use either foot and shoot. I thought he would be an astute signing. In pre-season he linked superbly with Hamer and looked excellent as they recreated their chemistry from their Coventry days. There were concerns Hamer may leave of course but he remained and they started the opening day at Preston. He began looking impressive as one of our focal points for our attack and assisted to Hamer and others for a few early season assists. He was maybe not quite the type of player we expected in that he was not as quick as I thought and also did not go past men like I maybe (mistakenly?) remembered. He also did not look like scoring many goals either! The thing he did well was carry the ball and link with others but his work rate and defensive pressing was superb and a real feature of our early season form.



His link up play saw Hamer score a few excellent goals and they often celebrated together too. He remained a regular despite not scoring and his play did drop off for a period of games. I recall him being not in the games at Leeds and Boro but he continued to be picked and despite others getting injured, he remained fit and this was a big plus after his history in this regard. He set up goals against Wednesday and Coventry and continued to be a mainstay with his pressing a continual asset, even if his finishing was poor when given opportunities. He did score against Oxford and West Brom but 2 goals overall was a really poor output for an attacking midfielder. Yet, when he was taken out (probably needed a rest) despite Brewster doing well for a few games, we kind of dropped off and felt Wilder should have put him in before he did back away at Stoke and played very well against Blackburn. Surprised he did not start at Bristol City but came on and scored a delightful flicked goal and followed it up with another in the second leg and was playing really well – even if a different role off the bench. Did not have impact at Wembley as the game was going away from us and ended up more centrally.



Overall, he looked to have been a good addition, even if a different type of player to the one I thought we had signed. He got a number of assists but did not score or threaten enough but was an excellent team player and worked very hard with great energy. He often did not finish games but it was noticeable for that spell when he was out, we struggled to harry the opposition who had easier balls out and routes into our midfield. I was surprised to see he is now 27 (in my head thought he was around 23-24 – opposite to Campbell who is younger than I thought!) and I think his level is about Championship due to not scoring enough goals or quite having the pace to go past players or make things happen when he had the ball. He has been a good signing though and ironically us not going up means he will be around the starting line up most weeks again next season.





Grade B- (Last season NA)





Sydie Peck A player that was dipped into the first team at times last season. Came on against Brentford and was on the bench a number of times – without seeing the pitch. I expected he would move out on loan this season with Arblaster, Souza, Hamer (Davies back hopefully?) and others in front of him. We also signed the likes of Shackleton, McCallum and O’Hare so you though that him being close to the first team was a long shot but he ended up being around the squad pre-season and came on at Preston. He was then outstanding in the league cup game against Wrexham and went from someone you thought had to go out – to a lad that might be able to replicate what Arblaster did the previous season. His showing was that good that several sides became interested in taking him (Rotherham strongly linked) but Wilder kept him around and recall him coming on and getting involved in a few dust ups at the end of games showing his character and willingness to get involved. He played against Derby and did well again with Arblaster out injured and kept his place for a period and looked good. He showed he could get around the pitch, make a tackle but was decent on the ball. Just looked like he had lots of potential and all the ingredients you want in a modern-day midfielder. Seemed to get the club too – even though a London boy and the fans quickly took to his commitment.



He was back on the bench after these few starts and when he got another start, he struggled at Bristol City. However, was very good in the Sheffield Derby and remained a starter for a good run of games as Arblaster picked up the season ending injury. He came in and we did not miss a beat really. Different type of player to Blaster in that maybe he did not do things as quickly or take the ball on the half turn and show that composure but he was never afraid to receive the ball and him and Souza established a good partnership. There was the odd drop off in terms of games but overall his performance levels were really good to say it was not only the first time he had played a series of games in men’s football but at a high level too. He got into some of the young England squads and as our midfield injuries mounted up, he had to keep playing. He then formed a duo with Davies for a while but the worry was he was being overplayed and the games maybe caught up with him for a period. Was taken out (rightly I felt) but not sure we had the same dynamism in this area and when given a chance again he took it with a superb display against Boro – set up the goal. He did well in the Leeds game too and certainly did not disgrace himself.



He remained in the side as a starter despite many of the other struggling for fitness and did well again in the return derby at Hillsborough. I thought he became one of our most consistent players and continued to do a lot of good things. He struggled with his attacking play in terms of goal threat (shooting needs a lot of work) but he was always in motion and wanting to move the ball – his range of passing is excellent and his confidence to receive and take the ball was commendable for someone so young. I remember thinking we had really found a gem and him remaining and playing (easily could have gone out on loan if not for the injures) worked in our favour and like with Blaster, the exposure to high level games worked in our favour. He became one of our more consistent players – even in the defeats towards the end of the season. I thought he looked a bit leggy in the playoff games and still could not score – despite lots more efforts.





I am excited to see how he can progress and take his game on – clearly there is a chance he can go on and be a top-level player. There is no reason not to think he will not- he has become a consistent performer and has a bit of everything. The offensive output and goal (assists and actual goals) contribution is his next step of course. That was an issue with hardly any goals from midfield and him and Souza never scored a single goal. He clearly loves playing for United and his celebrations and connection with the fans had made him a real favourite. If Arblaster gets fit – then regardless of what happens with Souza/Hamer- we have the foundation of a really good central midfield. The only worry is, like with Blaster last season, teams higher up will have noticed him and I would not be shocked if say a Brighton or Brentford were looking at him. He certainly had the potential to play at the top level – but hope it is with us. Says a lot about our youth scouting (look at likes of One, Lankshear, Osula and Jebbison before that) in that we picked him up and have now developed him. We criticise areas of our recruitment (maybe for the actual first team – to come in and start and find players – especially from abroad) but we are doing a lot right in identifying these sorts of players from others clubs.



Grade B (Last season NA)





Tom Davies Davies’ first season at United was a disaster as he barely played and picked up more injuries as the Blades went down and were not even competitive. The decision to award him a 3-year contract seemed absolute madness and I wondered if he would ever play again – such was his poor fitness record both with Everton – and now us – in recent years. He had not played 20 games in a season for 4 seasons. We saw more of Davies advertising his chopstick company or the charity work he is involved in. The brief appearances we saw of him in the 23-24 season, it was hard to gauge an opinion as it was fleeting cameos mostly – recall he played well at Luton in our last win though at this level.



As the season started, we heard Davies was on the road to recovery but seemed hamstring issues had continued to hold him back – to the extent he had to go and see specialists in Germany. The first we saw of him – after a few unused sub appearances was against Oxford in a routine win – as he came off the bench. The next home game he got more minutes but was the unlikely hero as he pounced on a loose ball to smash home at the Kop end late on in a big game against Sunderland. His celebrations were a real outpouring of emotion, after so long out and the players and fans clearly responded with him carried shoulder high. He seemed touched by the chant of his name as Wilder pushed him forward and despite his contribution being so limited in his first 16 months at the club – he cannot say the fans had not been patient! The next few games we saw him play more and his busy style was in evidence but he also had a bit of class when he got on the ball. You started to remember the impressive youngster who broke through at Goodison as he came in with Arblaster out and started to make a difference alongside Peck and Souza in different games. He was in the side for three game winless run over Xmas as the players tired and maybe he had played too much over this period after such a long time out. We needed reinforcements with Souza out but he and Peck put in another courageous effort in a win at Watford where both were superb. He played against Norwich but then Choudhury came in and Souza came back for a few games (before going out injured again). Davies sadly got another injury that saw him out for a month, but came back for the Boro/Leeds games but more niggle injuries saw him out of the squad again. We kept hearing he would be back but time went on and he never appeared again until a late cameo against Blackburn Rovers but made an impact at Ashton Gate as a sub and my nagging feeling is we should have seen more of him at Wembley as the two midfield lads looked tired.

Grade C (Last season F)



Hamza Choudhury Wilder clearly had always liked him. I recall him being excellent in the Leicester side that won early in the Premier League back in 18-19 and he ran midfield that day. Despite that he was sort of in and out at Leicester – more out than in – and never really held down a regular place. He went out on loan to Watford – and again think he played well in a game against us I recall? He played 40+ games last season as the Foxes walked the league and he played in a few positions – including a sort of inverted full back role. He was steady enough but like with a number (Souttar/Cannon) was not deemed good enough for the step up and as new players came in, he was rarely used despite Leicester struggling. Wilder continued to be linked with him and we brought him in with injuries to the likes of Arblaster, Souza and Davies.





The views from on him were less complimentary than we maybe would have thought with fans at both Watford and Leicester citing his lack of technical ability and forward passing. They did say he did the defensive work well and helped broke up play but lacked quality on the ball. I did not realise he was 27 – I thought he was younger than that – so was an experienced player to come in and help us. He made his debut at Derby and was neat and tidy and did what he needed to do. We saw the good and bad as he did all the things the fans of his previous clubs described but also struggled to move away from the defensive areas. He played a few games at right back and was ok but struggled to offer anything going forward.



At times he provided a good shield for the defence but also we had issues in that it left Peck exposed at times and we still conceded too many goals so him dropping back did not always give us the protection you would hope if he was so deep. He had some good displays (Wednesday away and Coventry home) as he just kept it nice and simple, winning the ball and laying it off. We also saw some performances where he ended up in an almost quarterback role where he was alongside the defence but not passing it forward like a Coutts or Norwood but sideways and led to big gaps. Souza came back in for some games but we realised they could not really operate together as both were more defensive minded and as we needed more creativity – you saw we missed Souza in this area. Peck was still the better midfielder of the two in many games but Choudhury kind of did what he was advertised to do.



He made his Bangladesh debut and was mobbed as he went away and drew interest from a lot of fans from this part of the world on social media but these long trips were maybe not helpful as we reached the business end. He went back to right back, due to Souza being back and us struggling here for a reliable starter and played in both positions – I always thought he was fine. He did what he was brought in to do and felt it was others (including many of the other new signings in January)– that did not quite hit the heights we would have wanted) and he played well at right back in both games against Bristol City and was our best player at Wembley.







He was an good loan signing and the only one I felt made a positive impact from the January window. Not spectacular but if Souza does move on as I think many of us expect, I would not be shocked if he stays permanently. At the Championship level he is fine. You would hope Arblaster and Peck (and maybe even Davies) can be the midfield we kind of hang our hat on and if he remains, he can come in and fill a role and with the inexperience/injury issues to the above, he could be handy lad to have around. Out of all the loan signings, he is the only one I would be advocating us signing really but may be beyond us due to his wages.



Grade B- (Last season NA)

 

[Deadbat]

Andre Brooks The disastrous Premier League campaign saw few bright moments but Brooks’ run of games after Wilder came in was one of the highlights. He did not maintain the form and was sort of in and out but did have some better games at the season’s close. Overall, it had been a bit of a breakthrough season though in terms of games played and he showed flashes of play that made you think he had a chance to make it. Certainly, at the lower Championship level, you sensed Brooks should stand out even more. We signed Rak Sakyi as the season started but Brooks began at Preston and set up the first and nearly made a few other goals in an excellent performance. He showed some of the dribbling and penetration we wanted him to display. At times he still made poor decisions despite some great pieces of skill and his shooting was poor. He also was quite predictable as he switched onto his left foot too much and was quite easy to show inside. Still, despite this he played in a number of our opening games and was very good at Norwich. Rak Sakyi came in and he went back to the bench for a period of games. Rak Sakyi was a bit up and down himself but at least got some goals and was more direct in terms of getting past his men so Brooks remained a role player. Some wanted him back in and he played against Swansea and Bristol City but did not take his chances. He played against West Brom and was excellent, scoring his first goal for the club and being a threat throughout. He then scored the cracking winner at Watford – complete with acrobatic celebration. He was poor though against Cardiff, Swansea and Hull – showing his lack of consistency with as many poor games as impactful ones.



After this, we did not see too much of him as Brereton Diaz came in and Rak Sakyi was preferred as the pacy wing option but we tended to go more solid and BBD maybe was seen as a better defensive help option. He came on briefly against Coventry but seemed like we decided to with other wide options. Not sure anyone really grabbed the shirt but the fact he was not looked at or used indicates he was maybe not showing enough in training or had not took his chances in the game I have described after Xmas. He got some time in the game at Stoke and scored with his first touch and even in a brief cameo we saw his running and dribbling as he gave a side something to think about. The Brooks v Blackburn summed up where he is though – offered nothing for 70 minutes and then inspired with dribbling/penetration for the final 20 minutes! Big goal at Bristol City after coming on as a sub and had scored more away goals since Xmas than any other Blades player! He got the start in the return leg and his dummy set up the second, but I always felt he was better off the bench? Missed that big chance in the final that he will be thinking about all summer.



Brooks is someone who definitely splits opinion. I look at someone like Seriki who struggled out on loan – so that is not always the best option and Brooks did not have any league loans but maybe he came in a bit soon but this was forced due to the struggles with the side at the top level and Wilder wanting some local connections to fans in him and Arblaster to galvanise the supporters? I do think he has shown flashes – he started the season well but then Rak Sakyi got in and he never really found his way back to the team with more experienced player preferred. When he got chances, he did not take them – he did have some games in a row so not sure he can say he did not get opportunities. He was too passive and too predictable. He needs to vary his game and be more forceful. Seems a nice lad but a bit too laid back maybe? Be a big next season for him. He has gone back a bit this year when you think he may have stood out more at a lower level. Still only 21 so I think there is still a chance for him and he will make a living in the game but how high he goes, will be down to him working on those flaws in his game. He does have ability and is a nice footballer with good technique so has a chance but needs more games but when he gets that time has to be more consistent.



Grade C (Last season C)



Jesurun Rak Sakyi He has lost an entire season almost through injury after his impressive loan spell at Charlton where he scored 15 goals in 43 games. The Palace coaching staff were still high on him and he was involved in much of pre-season and you wondered if he may be in and around their first team. United and others (Leeds) were linked with him but a sizeable loan fee was allegedly putting teams off but eventually the Blades got the deal done. It seemed an exciting one with a direct, quick and creative winger something United had not had for some time. Brooks began the season and JRS came in the week after but the winger was slowly eased in after a few sub outings. We saw flashes of his direct play and recall him setting up a few chances in games as he got past his full back. Like a typical winger, at times it did not come off and he sort of interchanged with Brooks for a while. His best game came when he scored twice in the win at home to Luton. He remained as a starter for a while and teams started to double up on him, such was his growing threat. He scored two well taken goals at Coventry and then at home to Oxford. He continued to be a regular but his form dropped off and he rarely ended games.



He picked up a knock and was out for a month before being mostly on the bench for the games in February although scored the winner v Pompey and then started and scored v Boro. He showed he could get you a goal which is invaluable. He was sacrificed at half time at Luton (a number could have been hooked) but caused problems in the subsequent home game against Leeds but was rotated again for a few games and was poor against Bristol City. We came on against Oxford and Millwall but missed some big chances in the latter game but played well and scored at Home Park but was taken off. Remained in the side v Cardiff but then out again in a stop-start finish to the season. Had some minutes in the home leg v Bristol City but then was oddly not involved as Wilder went back to a clearly unfit BBD at Wembley off the bench.









We saw real promise to start the season and you thought at first we would struggle to keep him – I recall talk of Palace maybe recalling him – but his form did drop off and after Xmas he was marginalised and not used that much – at least as a starter. He never had a run of games for a period and then dropped out of the squad completely at the business end – injury or something else?



His future will be interesting as he is not close to a starter at the top level yet and like with Brooks, is quite inconsistent and needs to play regularly and show form most games rather than the odd one here and there. He is quite slight and defensively he has a lot of work to do as this is a big weakness in his game. I often felt Wilder would not play him as he rarely got back and helped and often left his respective right back on an island. Attacking wise he would still offer a real threat with his dribbling and ability to get shots away and scored a few goals too. I think he might need another Championship loan and not sure Palace will have seen enough to think he can be a contributor in the top flight yet.



Grade C (Last season NA)







Ben Brereton Diaz Included him in midfield in this review (he played more forward/centre forward last year and our formation was different). When he went to Southampton in a permanent deal from Villareal, we were all disappointed as we felt he would have been an excellent signing, after he did so well and was one of the few who came out with much credit after our relegation. He scored a few goals, worked hard and looked a threat as he played the kind of wide strike position. He looked to be a clever player who could do a variety of roles. He never really played though on the South Coast and the Saints fans thought when he did play, he looked slow, unfit and way off the level required. He was part of another struggling side but made no impact at all. He was not even in the match day squads as the season went on. We became linked with him, as did a few other sides at this level and it seemed a no brainer – as he would provide competition both up top and down the sides. Seemed to love his time here and so despite Russell Martin moving on, the loan transfer with a view to a permanent deal was secured in January – it seemed to suit all parties.



He came in but looked a long way off match fitness. We played him down the right a lot which did not seem to suit him and last season he got in the box more and was more linking up with the other strikers (McBurnie etc). He seemed more marginalised the way we played him. However, despite him looking a long way off match sharpness, we saw some of the intelligent play we had seen a year ago. He scored a vital winner at Derby and then a lovely strike at home to Middlesbrough showing he could weigh in with important goals. Got another at QPR too. He often seemed to be in the right place at the right time. His overall performances were mixed. He did some good defensive work for the team helping the right back (Seriki often played over this period) but he struggled to impact things much attacking wise I felt in general play – despite the odd goal/assist. He was often shattered by the hour and seemed to not have the stamina he had from a year ago and the lack of games seemed to be catching up with him. I wanted him to be used on the left more, where had done well before or even supporting, or playing, in a more central role at times. I felt he did ok but was nothing more than average and nowhere near the standards of his previous loan. This was at a lower level too. I did not see the appetite and determination he showed before. Thought this was odd when he was essentially playing for his next contract (there was talk of a loan to buy if we went up so in his interests him really contributing to a promotion). I did not quite see the same player and worryingly he looked more like the player Blackburn fans described – an ok player who chipped in with the odd goal but did not have the pace/power to impact games consistently and sadly looked an average championship performer. As the season went on, his displays got less influential, which was a concern when he was brought in as one of those players to help us get over the line. Ended up on the bench although scored v Cardiff when he came on but overall he was not someone that did anywhere near enough. I thought he would be a huge addition but in the end struggled to even be a regular with injuries/lack of fitness and positional issues all contributing. Got an illness when we needed him the most in the Playoffs but to be fair not sure he would have started anyway but then when he was brought back (seemed an odd move due to his fitness) he got injured again and left soon after he came off -summed up his loan spell really – very stop start.



As for signing him, not for me. Overall, I was quite disappointed with his impact on his return. He did not do enough and was a fair bit off the player a season ago – when we all wanted him to remain full time. I would be surprised if we do sign him as his wages/fee would be way too much for us now we have not gone up. He kind of blew it when he had an audition to make himself a big part of our future in the next few years and feel he will sadly now have to go back to Southampton – where he seems not to be part of their plans. His career trajectory now is probably a mid-table Champ side (which he was before at Forest/Blackburn) as he lacks the conditioning/pace and consistency to play much higher. I was surprised he is only 26 as seems to have been around for ages so should be approaching his peak. I expect he will join a Preston/Stoke type side and do ok and maybe score a few goals and many may say we should have kept him but I am not sure he is quite the level we should be looking at or the type of player – we need to move away from slow, plodders who do a job and look for power and athleticism. A year ago, I thought he would be out of our reach and so it proved but now I think we have seen that run of games at the top level may have been the outlier in his career.



Grade C- (Last season B-)

 

[Deadbat]

Anis Ben Slimane One of the signings last summer, from Brondby but along with most of these international transfers, was another unsuccessful one joining Traore, Larouci, Trusty and others. United signed him for a reported fee of around a million pounds although some media sources had it as a lot more, it seems the reality is that it was probably not that substantial of a fee. 22 years of age and had played in the 2022 World Cup for Tunisia, appearing in two games for his country and Heckingbottom described him as a technical player who can handle the ball well and play a number of positions. He described that they had been looking at him for a while and it seemed they had been able to exploit a clause in his contract to bring him over to Sheffield.



In pre-season he looked decent and one of those that stood out and scored at Derby and seemed an athletic player who could carry the ball and get in the box. I felt positionally and discipline may be an issue as he did not do the defensive side very well and worried that if we played him in midfield we would be exposed as we of course would not see much of the ball at top level. He ended up only playing cameos, although recall one decent sub game against Brentford but he was another that was hopelessly unfit. He came back this season but Wilder seemed to be getting frustrated with his languid style and lack of fitness. He clearly had some ability but he was not a player we seemed to be able to trust to do the basics. However, with bodies short, he came on at Preston and then scored at home to Wrexham. He came on as sub a few more games and ironically his last game for us was at Norwich. The Canaries signed him a few days later but only after, according to Wilder, he refused to play for us against Barnsley. Wilder had seen enough and made some quite cutting comments about Slimane as he was allowed to move on. He went on a loan deal with a clause inserted that meant Norwich could permanently sign him. They did make it permanent in January.



At Norwich, the fans quickly saw what we had seen – a player that was decent on the ball but would not work back/defend and could not tackle. His lack of physicality and ability to do a job for the team. However, despite this, he has ended up starting many games but his flaky play matches the team he represents as they remain marooned in midfield despite possessing some talent. The manager knew him from his days in Denmark – so that connection was enough to convince him to keep him but whether that manager is there next season is debatable after a poor end for the Canaries.





Slimane will be one of those signings lumped in with the rest from the 23-24 close season that were simply miles off the standard that they were brought into play. I am unsure he will remain even at Championship level for a longer period – his game just seems too timid for the English League.







Grade F (Last season F+)







Ismael Coulibaly Coulibaly’s career trajectory had risen dramatically at Beerschot, to the extent that teams like AC Milan were supposedly interested in taking him for big money. United of course owned his playing registration after signing him from Sarpsborg in Norway and then placing him with the Belgian side, what was part of United World. After his eye-catching performances in Belgium, he struggled to maintain his form and got a few injuries before United eventually brought him over but not with the same hype he had previously created. He never really got much of a look in and struggled to get to the pace of English football. We saw the odd game and he played in the 22-23 season against Wrexham and Spurs but never really looked like he was a player that got to grips with games. He was poor with the ball and lacked awareness and seemed to struggle to keep up with other players which was a worry. He only made one sub appearance in the league. The following season in the top flight we saw nothing of him, despite the teams struggles and ended up on loan at Solna in Sweden but did not do enough to get a full-time transfer and came back. He again played against Wrexham in a cup game but was awful and repeated this abject performance at Barnsley I felt. Wilder had seen enough and he was not used for the club again. We seemed keen to move him on and he made noises about getting out. He cannot honestly say he had done enough to be involved in the match day squads. He simply was not at the level needed and in the end finally left for LASK, an Austrian side on a three-year deal. His side plays in the lower end of the table (splits in two) but he has only started two games and mostly been on the periphery. I am not sure he will ever amount to much sadly in the pro game and surprised a team that gave him such a long deal. I do not expect to see him in the game in a few seasons. We are not involved with any of these clubs as the United World now exists without erm…United as they carry on under Abdullah’s ownership but without their main club who of course were sold and have broken away from it. In the end we saw nothing from these partnerships at all sadly and it was a lot of talk with little actual result. Coulibaly is the symbol of these unsuccessful partnership.



Grade F (Last season F)



Owen Hampson He came from Man Utd a few years ago and had impressed earning a pro deal after his 2-year scholarship. He was a regular player for the u21’s and a key man, with a number of contributions in goal/assist output. He was rewarded with some games time in pre-season and scored a few goals too coming in from the wide left position. He seemed a talented player with good feet and another that the club clearly liked. As we brought more experience in, he was back to the u21’s for the most part but did have some cameos and did ok v Wrexham but found things a bit tougher at Barnsley. Came on in the FA Cup defeat to Cardiff. He got a loan move to Dunfermline but has not featured too much there with only a limited number of sub appearances in a struggling side fighting against relegation in the Scottish Championship. It seems the loan moves to Scotland (Buyabu, Curtis and Hampson have not quite worked as the club intended but at least they get more football and indeed life experience.



Grade C (Last season NA)



Billy Blacker Blacker went to School in Hebden Bridge and had come through the United ranks being a prolific striker for the u18’s but had been moved back to the midfield position as he became a regular for the u21’s. Always looked a neat and tidy player who got around the pitch, could pass the ball and had an eye for a goal too. He was given a pro deal and he is still only 18. He has been the captain for the u21’s and continued to impress this season. He got a debut too against Cardiff in the FA Cup and I thought he was our best player in a poor cup exit and stood out more than the rest. He came on the following game at Swansea too. After this he had a few unused sub appearances. Wilder likes him and the fact he has promoted him up so young shows that. He will be one the club has high hopes for and he in turn will see the likes of Peck, Brooks, Arblaster and Seriki getting chances and see a clear pathway – although ironically a few above may be blocking it – at least for now in terms of central midfield.



Grade B- (Last season NA)



Others (not played/gone on loan/young players)



Jefferson Caceres was one of two real left field signings at the end of the window. United’s new ownership group had seemingly identified a new kind of data driven scouting system (not new as all clubs have one but this seemed different in a player signed merely from data than probably being properly scouted). Caceres had played in his hometown Peru for FBC Melgar and clips shown him as an attacking winger with an eye for a goal. Nicknamed the ‘Bullet’ it was envisaged that he would be part of the u21 set up for a period and would not be close to the first team this season. He ended up playing games for the development side and scored a few goals and then we saw him given a place in the matchday squad at the end of the season. Watchers remarked on his ability on the ball but also cited he had a lot to learn in terms of movement/defensive work (Copyright Carrier Bag Firm!). Will see what happens next season but another who may go out on loan – but not sure what he would make of a cold Tuesday night in Morecambe after being raised in Lima!



Christian Nwachukwu The younger of the two, Nwachukwu is 19 compared to Caceres who is 22. The Nigerian forward, who also can play on the wing had been playing in Bulgaria and had played in the Europa League last season He had only played 9 games for Botev Plovdiv but scored 6 times! We did not see him in terms of actual action – there was talk of work permit issues but then it was revealed he simply had to build up his fitness. I think we saw him (and Caceres) on the pitch at the end of some of the home games. His primary objective is to get some games though next season with the development team.



Sam Aston A regular for the u18s last season after signing from the Yorkshire Elite Football Academy. He can play centre or right of midfield. Ended up being involved and scoring in the later stages of the u21 play offs in the last campaign scoring in the semi and finals of this competition. Aston has been in the u21’s most of this season but made the bench against Cardiff in the FA Cup.







Next season



Like the defensive area, questions remain in here. The two players you want to pin your hopes in as long term starters are Peck and Arblaster. The latter needs to come back fit and the former may generate some interest from other clubs – so even that is not set in stone they return. Souza and Hamer both may be sacrificed and I’d be surprised if both come back – I actually can see Souza going more than Hamer but that is just because of the type of player he is. If they do go, we figure to make 20-25 million for the pair and can reinvest but would be big gaps as the two players have been two of our better players. The rest of the midfield will surely see O’Hare, Davies and Brooks return but non can say they will be going into the season as definite starters. The other loans – Rak Sakyi and BBD – neither have done enough to be even considered. A lot may depend on formation. If we play 4-4-2, we need to find two proper wingers – as we have not had that (Brooks and Rak Sakyi best two we have suited but neither been regulars). I would be contend with Peck and Blaster in there (and Davies as back up) and then maybe Hamer (if he remains) and O’Hare on one side – not really a winger suppose and one other. That does leave us light in size and physicality though. Maybe if Hamer comes back he is played more centrally in front a of a two and we tweak the formation again?



Player / Position Years remaining (contract expires) Red this year – Orange next year – Green longer contract –





Midfielders

Billy Blacker 1 year (2026)

Owen Hampson 1 year (2026)

Tom Davies 1 year (2026)

Vinicius Souza 2 years (2027)

Gustavo Hamer 2 years (2027)

Andre Brooks 2 years (2027)

Jefferson Caceres 2 years (2027)

Christian Nwachukwu 2 years (2027)

Oli Arblaster 3 years (2028)

Sydie Peck 3 years (2028)







Youngsters involved in 1st team last season or loans out (contracts unknown if not stated)



Ethan Cummings 1 year (2025) – now released

Billy Blacker 1 year (2026)

Sam Aston 1 year (2026)

Jay Tinsdale 1 year (2026)





Return to loan club:



Jesurun Rak Sakyi to Crystal Palace

Ben Brereton Diaz to Southampton

Hamza Choudhury to Leicester