Football Season Guide

Sheffield United are back in the second tier after an excellent season last term under the management of Chris Wilder. He has really proved that affinity with a club can go a long way in football and has got the best out of his squad in recent months. He has improved it too with the capture of Oxford midfielder John Lundstram and defenders Richard Stearman and George Baldock. The signing of Jamal Blackman, on loan from Chelsea, has really been made out of necessity. Having allowed George Long to join Wimbledon, No.1 Simon Moore has since picked up a pre-season injury meaning a keeper was a necessary addition. The Blades have only allowed players to leave who do not appear good enough to play at this level. Suddenly there is plenty of confidence back at Bramall Lane following a disappointing last few seasons. They have a hard working bunch with crowds coming back to support them after a few years in the doldrums. Key player is Billy Sharp who will be expected to continue his outstanding term last season and bang in the goals for the club he loves. Sharp has only had a few seasons at this level so will be desperate to prove this is where he belongs. United have picked up a few injuries in pre-season, in addition to Moore, something that will need to be addressed by Wilder. Clearly having just won promotion United will not be expected to challenge at the top but this squad suggests they should do reasonably well.