Saturday 7 December 2013

Vital Point

Leyton Orient 1
Sheffield United 1
Attendance 6,586
United Following 1,128

I think all Blades fans have to admit we were expecting a loss on this occasion, Leyton Orient have been top of the table for most of the season and have been the surprise package of the division. But the day ended with United taking a share of the points which could prove vital at this stage of the season. We, by no stretch
of the imagination went out to dominate and attack from start to finish, we didn't go out to play pretty football, we battled and put in a hard and determined shift, something I think we have lacked as of late.
Orient had the brighter start, Mooney getting into good space exposing Uniteds weakness at the back, luckily on this occasion Mooney shot wide of the mark. Mooney picked up the ball after the defence failed to get it clear but there were no Orient front men in the area to convert. The Blades dug in but were again caught out by the divisions high flyers, Shaun Batt showed incredible pace to run the ball from the halfway line into The Blades area, his cross met Mooney who looked odds on to give Orient the lead, however on this occasion George Long pulled a composed save out of the bag, getting low down to stop the ball rolling underneath him into the goal. Batt's pace continued to cause us problems but for all the opportunities Orient were not showing the killer instinct which got them to where they are at this stage of the season. Despite the problems unlike games gone by, United did not look down hearted, their heads were not on the floor and we continued to battle and try and grab the reigns. Uniteds first instance of taking the game to Orient ended with a weak cross from Tony McMahon causing no problems for Jones who caught the ball with ease. Now, many football purists will call the rest of the first half and the start of the second half boring, but what we saw as Blades fans was a vast difference from what we have come to expect, we held the ball, we played intelligently, we did not push on and press enough in my mind but to keep the ball and cut down
on possession loss was something that we had needed to work on. Despite Orient having a larger shots count we managed to keep the possession, having 59% of it by the games end, and in games like this this is vital. It prevented Orient totally overloading and crippling our defences, it boosted confidence amongst the players, something they so desperately need, frustrated our opponents and it all paid off seven minutes after the hour mark. The ball played forward to McGinn who was muscled off the ball which landed to Baxter who much like McGinn was forced to the floor, neither a foul simply a lack of strength, Porter collected the loose ball and instead of trying his luck showed the wherewithal to place a pass across the box to an unmarked Conor Coady who rolled the ball under Jones before showing in his celebrations how much his first senior goal meant to him. Coady celebrated like he had just scored in the FA Cup final, he showed the passion and love for football
that this team needs an injection of, something echoed by the one thousand plus following Blades fans who were now making a lot of noise. United from this point slowed the game down, really doing all they can to prevent Orient having opportunity to equalise, and for a long time this was successfully done.  Many thought United had come to London and shown enough to upset the odds, but when Orient lofted the ball forward to Cox the forward showed great ball control and unleashed a goal of the season contending volley, George Long having no chance as the ball looped over him into the goal, a cruel blow to The Blades but you just don't stop those. Orient nearly snapped all three points but Simpsons tame header was easily tipped wide by Long, a loss would have been undeserved, United worked incredibly hard for their point, but as the final whistle blew many knew if it wasn't for a wonder goal United may have come away with all three.
This game gave me a sense of hope that things can be turned around, and if we can show the same character we showed for this game until January we have every chance of putting a better run together.

CLOUGH'S COMMENTS
"It was all going according to plan and another screamer has denied us all three points"

"We’re unbeaten in three matches now and, even though two of those have been draws, it means we are slowly making progress. Getting out of the bottom four should, psychologically speaking, do us the power of good. But it is still very early days yet and this is just another small step"

Jonathan Gascoigne

Wednesday 27 November 2013

RIP SPEEDO, FOOTBALL LEGEND


Luck, Wimps and Bad Refs Match Reports

Bristol City 0
Sheffield United 1
Attendance 13,220

By all accounts this was one of the most boring non events in recent memory. Many believed that we were about to be thumped as kick off approached, Bristol may be at the wrong end of the table but were unbeaten in five. In regards to highlights to report it is difficult because genuinely they were non existent. A tame free kick from Shorey was caught easily by George Long in the first half, at the other end an equally
weak free kick, all be it lower and marginally more dangerous, was easily grasped by the Bristol goalkeeper. Shorey made mugs of our defence with quick feet but could only find row z with a long shot. An all to familiar theme is our defensive weakness and on this day we were lucky that in front of goal Bristol were as awful as we are, our defenders dropped to the floor like children throwing a tantrum when they couldn't make a tackle, they were left looking foolish and amateur all to often. In the second half Bristol City were left furious as appeals for handball in the box were ignored by the referee after a scramble. Then came a flash of luck, something we are not used to this season, McMahons weak cross to the front post went straight to flint in the Bristol defence, unfortunately for Flint his sliced clearance went straight into the back of his own net, Flint is now tied with Marlon King, Ryan Flynn and Jose Baxter as fourth leading scorer. A foul on George Long lead to the visitors having an equaliser ruled out. As the full time whistle sounds we have to realise that is a valuable three points, and no one can argue we need them, but again we showed we were not good enough. Bristol fans dubbed us the worst team to play them that season, and despite them being just as poor it is hard to argue with them. A lucky three points. 


Sheffield United 1
Walsall 1
Attendance 14,796

A match that left me furious, not just because the draw felt like a loss, not just because of the lack of fight, determination or attacking ambition, but also because of the ludicrous statement by Nigel Clough this was a well earned and well battled point! BATTLED!! A statement that I believe is beyond delusion. 
The match itself did not start too badly, The Blades had a corner flicked into the back of the Walsall net only for it to be cleared off the line by a Walsall defender. After this the Blades nearly repeated the mistake that cost us last time out at The Lane, having a weak back pass fall to a Walsall forward.  Luckily for us George Long was quick off his line and pushed away the attempted chip keeping the game goalless. The game became slow and stagnant from this point, neither team looking likely to score. The Blades were second to nearly every ball, we showed no strength or fight when making challenges, it looked like men against boys for a long duration. The Blades found a way forward and Aidy White progressed into the Walsall box only to be brought down by Lalkovic for what most of the world would class as a stonewall penalty, a clumsy sliding challenge from behind. The only person in the ground who did not think it was a penalty appeared to be
referee Chris Sarginson who claimed Lalkovic won the ball, to add insult to injury he then gave a goal kick, contradicting his theory that the ball was won. This gave United a brief spark of inspiration and we began to pile forward, but the same old problems showed themselves, our strikers trying to walk the ball into the net rather than take glorious shooting opportunities. Wasted chances and an inability to pick put players in dangerous positions led to the game simmering back down on the field. Off the pitch Nigel Clough along with the fans were still outraged by the Referees decision and he was booed ferociously even ten minuets later. Just before the half time whistle a cross came into the box towards Miller who was being marked by two Walsall players, the ball fell behind Miller and James Chambers brought up his hand and struck the ball. The referee awarded the penalty on this occasion. Walsall fans have since argued that this was not a penalty and the player couldn't help the ball striking his hand, going further also claiming that the only reason it was awarded was to appease the fans who had been booing him since his first mistake. This is untrue, the referee gets this spot on, the players arm is in a high and unnatural position and is a blatant handball. Chris Porter Stepped up and sent the keeper the wrong way seconds before the half time whistle, Half Time and the Blades lead one nil.
The second half could not have gotten off to a worse start, poor defending from the full backs led to a cross being whipped into a waiting Craig Westcarr whose powerhouse header tore into the Blades goal, one all and again the back four too easily exposed, especially with the absence of Harry Maguire. The rest of the second half was a non event, a few penalty shouts from the home crowd, but in reality non of them had any substance, Chris Porter just fell over a few times. The crowd got more and more frustrated as time passed, not passing the ball forward or even looking like trying to attack. The anger reached fever pitch when Miller was replaced by Baxter leaving only Porter as the sole striker, not the shape of a team looking to push on for the win. It was as though the decision was made to hold on for a point against a distinctly below average Walsall side. Again the players failed to see players in attacking positions and made lots of lofted balls forward which resulted in us loosing possession far to often. Taylor replaced Porter and looked full of energy and attempted to drive the team forwards, but when the ball is constantly being passed backwards and George Long hits the ball straight down the field to there defenders there is not a lot he can deliver. The only real chance came as Taylor's clever flicked header bobbled towards the bottom corner, it was wide but the real let down was the lack of pace by McMahon who was following it in, a simple outstretched leg could have bobbled the ball into the back of the net, but McMahon couldn't show the fight to even stick out a leg, instead watching the ball bobble in front of him and out for a goal kick. Two of the worse corners I have ever seen as a Blade ended the game and the players showed again that we are bad enough to be contenders for relegation this season, an unhappy Lane crowd left disgruntled and shocked at the lack of guts shown by their team.

"It was a hard-earned point against a very good Walsall side"
-Delusional post game comments from The Gaffer

Jonathan Gascoigne

Wednesday 20 November 2013

Enough is Enough

Now after recent events I do not want to be classed as scapegoating individuals, the truth is the team is not performing, but certain players continuously season after season become a huge hindrance. I have already expressed my opinion on Michael Doyle but now I think its time we ask why is Chris Porter still at the club. He has scored fifteen goals in seventy nine games since joining Sheffield United, that for a striker is not good enough, especially since he is used in a goal scoring role. He misses sitters and loses the ball all to often, he does try do not get me wrong, but if trying was enough I would be a Premiership striker, but in the real world
I don't have the talent or ability. Working hard and trying is admirable but it does not change the fact he does not have the ability. Chris only scored nine goals in forty four league games for Derby County, again not the record of a goal scorer. It really aggravated me on the radio after the Gillingham game to hear Paul Walker of BBC Radio Sheffield say things like it frustrates him to hear people criticizing Porter and Doyle, good Paul I am very glad, it means you feel a fraction of what we feel every time we see their name on the team sheet. To defend his work ethic is like the only defence he could muster, and of course the fact he scored, but again in the real world how many times has it happened in football a player having a nightmare game grabs a goal. Paul also seemed to have watched a different game to myself saying Porter had linked up with Miller well and put on a good display, that's not what I remember, I remember Chris constantly loosing the ball and not being able to do the most simple of things. Things became worrying when Nigel Clough came on the radio and explained that he intends to build a partnership with Porter and Maguire, alarm bells rang immediately at this, Chris Porter should not be in our team never mind the foundation of a striking partnership. Watching the Gillingham game he was more a hindrance to Miller than a partner, he did not hold up or supply Miller at all, neither did he manage to latch onto any balls from Miller. If Clough does in fact go through with this Harry Maguire will remain top scorer and we will be relegated.


The solution? Personally, I want to see Taylor and Miller start together,  try and build that partnership, if this can be tested before January it will indicate whether a large portion of any transfer budget will go towards strikers or other positions. We have seen already that Taylor has skill, pace and can finish the ball, he is a shade taller and stronger than Miller, meaning he can be used to hold up the ball if necessary, the two have the potential to cause the defences in this division major problems. This, like I said, would have to be tested before January so time is running out. Other options are out there with out of favour players. One of the more doubtful options is out of favour Billy
Sharp, this is doubtful because despite our new found investment and Southampton's willingness to let Sharp go, he has already had two spells here and could already have a sour taste in his mouth about us, despite being a fan. Another reason it is doubtful is the number of Championship clubs that are showing interest in the Sheffield born striker. As mentioned before Matt Derbyshire could be utilised at this level, more a gamble than Sharp but one in my opinion we should look at taking, as outlined in my previous article if we built up his confidence we could have a devastating hitman on our books. Whatever the choice made by those in charge I, like many fans, urge them to refrain from making Porter their number one choice, it hasn't worked and it wont work, it is time for a change.

Jonathan Gascoigne

VS Gillingham

SHEFFIELD UNITED 1
GILLINGHAM 2
Attendance 16,560

A cold Saturday afternoon lead to The Blades sinking to a new low, I never thought in my lifetime I would see my team perform this badly. The local press and some fans would have you believe by their opinion we didn't play too badly, this is utter tripe. There was no communication between the goalkeeper and the back four, in the final third the strikers were unable to take advantage of the scraps provided by a very defensive
midfield, and of course the bench once again had more quality than the starting eleven. To suffer at the hands of goals crafted by our own inadequate defending was possibly the hardest pill to swallow from this. An early mistake from the usually solid Harry Maguire, his poor and weak back pass not reaching Long who was slow off his line, Longs rushed clearance rebounding back off Kedwell giving the Gills a one goal lead. The Blades had a chance from a corner to equalise, but Neil Collins header was cleared off the line. A slow period followed, the Midfield not finding the right passes, along with Chris Porter losing the ball all to often. Miller looked sharp but never got the service to cause any real damage. Another set piece led to the equaliser, a corner kick floated into an unmarked Porter who took advantage of the space to nod home from close range. Things picked up a little, but again Porter never really looked like keeping the ball or causing any real problems.

The second half started badly, a nothing cross not dealt with by the defence leading to a Gillingham header looping a poorly positioned Long, who bizarrely lowered his hand instead of stretching hitting the bar, the ball fell back into the area where George Long had to make a save from close range, but the ball ricocheted into
McDonald, the scramble ended with the ball into The Blades net, putting The Gills in front. The following was a long drawn out boring display, the midfield looking like scared children and the defence looking vulnerable on any kind of counter. Flynn again showed he was out of his depth, not being able to beat a player and looking negative, Porter still could not keep a hold of the ball or win a header. We lost any kind of progressive build up play and reverted to trying to pick out the strikers with lofted balls which of course lead to a loss of possession. Hill's performance was particularly terrible in defence, his lack of pace and ability to make a credible challenge was a major hindrance. Miller managed to find space on the odd occasion but was unable to get the goal he so desperately needs, but his energy and fight was a refreshing sight. Clough made some changes, McGinn and Taylor coming on, these two players delivered more in their time on the pitch than most of the starting eleven. An eleven which consisted of six defensive players and approached the game in a very negative way.
Gillingham began the task of running down the clock, and when a scramble formed in the Gills area the referee caused outrage by blowing for a Gillingham foul, despite it being a Blades player on the bottom of the dog pile and the Gillingham keeper being on the top. This caused a pushing and shoving match one of two that happened in the final quarter of the game, all caused by poor refereeing decisions. Outrage also engulfed the Blades support after the Gillingham keeper dramatically dropped to the ground despite no physical contact from anyone, leading to Shaun Miller being booked, nearly four minutes were wasted by the acting. The Gills game plan paid off and The Blades suffered another home defeat to a chorus of boo's from the home crowd. An awful display and a harsh reminder that unless things improve we are in real danger of becoming a League Two club.


Wednesday 13 November 2013

Short Term Memory, Bias and Pretend Journalism

As most fans of Sheffield United will know The Sun published an article today, the sole purpose of this article was to further try and destroy the reputation of the football club as they have in the past, and to also discredit Selahattin Baki, one of the new directors who arrived with Prince Abdulla. The article notes Baki
appeared in the Danny Dyer series Real Football Factories International. It is noted Baki was a former 'ultra' and made poor judgements in his past, who hasn't? Rather than give any credibility to this article I think it best just to state some facts. First of all I have a hard time taking serious news from a newspaper that had to print a full front page saying "WE LIED". And on that same note they scrutinize Baki's past, lets look at the Suns past, lying about disasters, waging war with the BBC to try and influence readers toward the Murdoch empires television services, a newspaper that takes great pleasure in trying to ruin any chance English football has of becoming great at any level with it's gutter journalism.
The Sun reports on Baki's past indiscretions, why not about Vincent Tans involvement with corrupt Malay politicians? Whilst Baki is older, wiser and no longer involved with such stupidity, corruption and shady business is a constant in Tans life. Vincent Tan changed a clubs colours, destroying heritage and tradition, why, so he can make money, so he can do things selfishly with no consideration towards the fan's who come through the turnstiles. Why because he thinks it is HIS club. In this county Hull City AFC are now The Hull City Tigers, why because Assem Allam says it is HIS club, claiming it is important for business and that AFC means nothing, obviously clueless to the history of the sport he is investing in. Whilst here at our club our "Hooligan" Director is making an effort to connect with fans, to build relations with other clubs that will benefit the club in the right way, ensuring our history is protected and our traditions remain in tact, his past matters not, he was not picked at random from a crowd
of thugs.   He changed his life and is now where he is for the right reasons. Fenerbahce have one of the most passionate and impressive supports in world football, viewing their stadium literally shake as their fans bounce, chant and set of pyro is one of the most awe inspiring in football. But it is well documented the football fans of Turkey whilst passionate are also the most active in the Hooligan world, to be a part of this, to get out and change his life, to become a trusted board member for a Billionaire Prince, to become director of a football club deserves respect, not scrutiny. After all if people can not change, then surely an organization can not change, so by that philosophy the short term memory of the Sun ensures they are and will always be Liars.
Not to be outdone BBC Radio Sheffield's Football Heaven team were indeed straight onto this story, a station known by many locally to be biased toward's the Blue side of Barnsley. Many may say this is unfounded and me wearing blinders, but lets look at the facts about Radio Sheffield, they dragged the Ched
Evens issue for weeks, not looking at the serious irregularities of his case and sentencing but making it an issue about Sheffield United. They did this in the Breakfast show with Toby Foster a man who just likes to raise eyebrows and feed his own ego (proven every morning just by listening to what he has to say) and on the Football Heaven 'Fan Forum' Show. Whilst in contrast the controversy surrounding Steve Evans, Gary Madine and The Hillsborough Disaster didn't warrant getting the extensive coverage on the Toby Foster breakfast show. The Football Heaven show will no doubt drag this story about Baki on as long as they possibly can, as, no doubt will Toby Foster in the morning. Aside from the Bias, the phone in's sometimes border on the farcical, no matter which club you support. Rob Staton a man who loves the sound of his own voice and would much prefer his own show to just talk to himself for a few hours and will talk down to callers, verbally assaulting anyone who disagree's with his own opinion, not caring this is a show supposedly here for the fans, paid for by the fans from their TV License. He believes his opinion is superior to that of the average supporter. 

I make no secret of the fact I do not like the press, nor do I like my local radio, so why do I want to become a Journalist, because I want to do what modern day journalists do not do, which is report about football, not gutter stories about controversy, I want to be a real journalist, not a pretend one like the ones we have to endure day in day out.

Jonathan Gascoigne

Match Reports Playing Catch Up

****Due to technical difficulties the reports have fallen behind, these match reports will be in a very basic format so as to bring things up to date.

SHREWSBURY 2
BLADES 0
Greenhous Meadow

A very strange team selection for Nigel Clough's first away game, defender heavy and players out of position, With very little action it took a screamer from Joe Jacobson to open the scoring. Substitute Fabian Brandy had a moment of madness, reacting to a foul he raised his hands to the opposing player, a cardinal sin in the modern game, he was sent off leaving himself in the supporters bad books, and having a lot to explain himself for as this is the second time this has happened.
Liam McAlinden doubled United's agony doubling Salop's lead end ending United's day as far as contesting for points were concerned.

COLCHESTER 2
BLADES 3
FA Cup
Weston Homes Community Stadium

A late penalty had the final word in this game. The Blades made hard
work of it however going two nil up after only twelve minutes thanks to leading scorer Harry Maguire and an own goal from Colchester's Sam Walker.  As is usually the case with The Blades however we couldn't just shut out the game and goals from Bonne and Garbutt had the game level with twenty five minutes to go. Controversy (according to the Colchester boss) as The Blades were given a Penalty inside the last ten minutes, Chris Porter stepped up despite not impressing throughout the game and grabbed the late winner. Sheffield United move onto the next round, not a classic performance but a win non the less. Hopefully in the next game things will fall into place and we will have reason to cheer without worrying about last minute winners.







Jonathan Gascoigne

Sunday 10 November 2013

White Noise

***Editorial Note- This piece was written on Wednesday the 30th October but it was unpublished due to severe technical issues.

Nigel Clough has seen that we need to strengthen in the left back position. And to his credit he has wasted no time at all going out and bringing someone in, that man is young Aidan White, on loan from Leeds until January. Now on paper its a great bit of business, plenty of experience at this level and the level above, has
played against top league players in the cup without embarrassment along with being. pacey and versatile. But if you scratch beneath the surface it could be viewed as a bit of a gamble. White is seen by some at Leeds as a disruptive influence in the changing room, there have been no real bust ups or major controversies but some staff have said publicly that White can be arrogant and is displeased, almost childlike and bratty when things don't go all his way.  Leeds fans had a mixed opinion of White on the field, whilst pacey and comfortable anywhere up the left side some claim he does not really use his pace or abilities to test defenders when going forward, frustrating many of the fans, even being called lazy on occasion. Others note whilst good going forward with the ball and making runs for a left back he isn't always that comfortable defensively (many will remember making the same statement about a certain Mr Kyle Walker, who despite not being in the first team all that long before moving on to a higher level is a sorely Missed Blade) , this leaving them exposed at times, not tracking back after making runs being they're main concern.  But in all honestly as a Blade I think this is a good signing, despite the players noted faults and his experience (over seventy appearances for Leeds at several levels) and playing in a host of positions including on the right and in the middle of the park, he is only twenty two years of age and still has things to learn, and is able to improve.  I see it as an ideal chance for him to come in and impress his bosses at Leeds and help us win some games in the process, its ideal for all parties, and whilst he may have his critics White is the kind of player (football ability wise) I want to see pull on the Red and White stripes and help us rescue the season. Whether he will make the kind of impact I am hoping for time alone will tell but I remain firmly optimistic.


Tuesday 5 November 2013

Blades Fantasy Football I

***Editorial Note- This piece was written on Tuesday the 29th October but it was unpublished due to severe technical issues.

January Possibilities I

January is approaching faster than we realise and Sheffield United need an injection of new blood. I will be doing a series of articles called Blades Fantasy Football, it will look at possible improvements and also utilising the best we already have at the club. Whilst I know everyone has their own personal opinions and desired targets, some realistic some on the verge impossible, I will be looking at players who are out of contract, not in their current clubs first team plans and those who could be persuaded with our new found wealth.

Phil Bardsley
It is well documented that Bardsley is unwanted at Sunderland, the reasons behind this may put off a lot of fans accepting him as a possible signing.  But the defender has Premiership experience and has also played for Sheffield United before. He was meant to sign for us permanently, The Blades having agreed terms with Manchester United but the deal fell through. The centre half has all the qualities we are short of at the back and would slot in nicely next to Harry Maguire. At 28 he is not over the hill but he is also old enough to compose himself to the physical nature of League One.


Radosław Majewski
The Twenty Six year old versatile Polish midfielder could be just what we need to boost our power going forward. Capable of playing on the right wing and supplying a generous amount of assists, he can also provide us with the technique and goalscoring prowess to slot into the attacking centre midfield role. Whether as a replacement for Kevin McDonald or a winger I would make him one of the top targets for January. Not exactly the first on the team sheet at Forest, with the prospect of first team football, promotion and a good offer he could be brought in. 

Kieth Fahey
Kieth is currently without a club, and is currently training with The Blades, so whilst not strictly a possible January signing (as we can sign him any time) I think he should be a definite signing. He is no spring chicken but the Midfielder is exactly what this team requires to step up a level. The ideal replacement for Michael Doyle, great going forward, strong when defending and capable of making some quality passes. He has International experience and has played at a high standard in the League. If I were Nigel Clough this would be my first signing.


Dean Lewington
A veteran of this division and a very capable left back Lewington has been someone I have wanted us to sign for several years. He can play a good pass but most of all is defensively sound, not fazed by the nitty gritty nature of League One and still able to play football under pressure, Lewington is capable of being an integral part of the creation of this divisions best defence. A first team regular at MK Dons and team captain it would cost us to bring him here, but in order to strengthen we have to spend money. On a personal level Lewington may be reluctant to leave, he has never played for anyone else, and was at the original Wimbledon, on the youth books there remaining at the club when they re franchised and formed the MK Dons. But if he is ambitious this move could really tempt him.

Seamus Conneely
A player who was released under Danny Wilson, a player who Gary Speed and Chris Morgan believed had a bright future, a player who I believe could have been, and still could be our next great right back. We have had several, Kyle Walker, Kyle Naughton, Matthew Lowton, does Conneely have the pace these young men had, probably not, but as far as playing football and picking out a pass young Seamus wins hands down. Now playing in the Irish Leagues for Sligo I do not believe the physical nature of League One would be a problem, and after playing in the Europa League against a strong calibre of opponent, Seamus could make a big impact if he was persuaded to return. 

Matt Derbyshire
I can hear you all now saying it in unison "Matt Derbyshire, are you mad?" yes I know he has not scored in a long time, no one can remember the last time he scored in the Championship, and he only scored four in eighteen games for Oldham in 2012. Matt Derbyshire is short of confidence, he has the ability to score bags of goals, but confidence is his enemy right now. He scored four in League One with a team not playing great football or giving him particularly good deliveries, a team not playing to Derbyshire's strengths. The Championship is not where Matt is going to regain his confidence and find form. If he were to come to us, have the delivery given to him, have the support play adapted to assist his strengths, he will score goal after goal, regain his confidence and become a Blades legend. He is currently on Loan at Blackburn until the end of 2013, I think for a modest transfer fee and a clever contract this could be a very goof bit of business.

In the next Blades Fantasy Football I will be looking at the squad we have and trying to pick the strongest candidates to match this shopping list of players.

Jonathan Gascoigne


Monday 4 November 2013

Rebirth

***Editorial Note- This piece was written on Monday the 28th October but had remain unpublished due to severe technical issues. 


After the midweek appointment of Nigel Clough it was time to get back on the pitch and see if the new gaffer could keep the momentum built by caretaker boss Chris Morgan going.
The first test came at home against Crewe Alexandra.


The Blades took to the field for the first time under the new gaffer and received a warm reception following the great result at Peterborough. The team line up had no real drastic changes there was an alteration of shape which would no doubt mean the approach had mildly been adapted as much as possible in the short time Clough had before match day. Simon Lappin stepped in to replace Fabian Brandy who was reportedly ill.

Before kick off the Bramall Lane announcer Gary Sinclair, asked those in attendance to show their appreciation for all the hard work and commitment from Chris Morgan. The eighteen thousand plus rose to their feet and delivered a deafening round of applause for the former United centre half, hopefully Chris knows just how much the fans thank him for again stepping in and injecting some belief and passion back into the team. Nigel Clough joined in with the applause and showed his respect. One thing that has to be noted is that if Nigel wants success at The Lane one man he needs to liaise with and seek advise from, especially when it comes to characters in the dressing room, is Chris Morgan.

The game itself had a fast and furious start, a few overzealous tackles and attempted killer balls, United had the majority of early play. Michael Doyle gave away an early foul making a strong hard challenge setting the tone that The Blades were ready to battle, something the team was lacking under David Weir. Doyle also tried to mimic his goal from the last home game on the ten minute mark, unfortunately this time the ball lifted
over the bar and into the travelling Crewe supporters. There was a moment of madness shortly after Crewe hitting a ball towards the right corner being defended by United, Tony McMahon was first to the ball and all he had to do was hit it up the park, maybe even play it across to George Long, but McMahon dwelled on the ball to long, allowing one of Crewe's wingers to put pressure on him and dispossess him of the ball, McMahon then gave away a foul, leaving The Blades in a vulnerable position unnecessarily. The ball was whipped in and met by the head of a Crewe midfielder and George Long had to pull of a very composed save to stop the day turning to tragedy.

The Blades looked very rigid early on, no doubt still adapting to the new game plan and the balls going forward were not of very good quality, teething problems the new boss will no doubt have to work on in the week. The Blades also found it a struggle to win any headers, or get to the second ball. All in all it was still an improvement from the Weir tactics but the new philosophy will take time to take to adapt to, and what The Blades needed desperately at this point was a confidence boost.  That Boost came as McGinn was
fowled near the corner flag resulting in a Blades free kick. McGinn himself hit the ball, all be it rather softly
bouncing in the area towards the near post, where Harry Maguire found space to place a cool header straight into the net. The centre half celebrating his goal as The Lane erupted into raptures, the torment of the first quarter of the season seemed to wash away and a rebirth of sorts seemed to breath new life into the team. The players started venturing out of position to win balls, to help their team mates, a cardinal sin under David Weir. They seemed to buckle down and finally seem interested in putting a collective 'shift in'.  Lyle Taylor nearly doubled The Blades lead, played to him on the edge of the area from the right wing he cleverly trapped the ball and changed direction, drawing the defenders away, then striking with his left boot he was denied only by a good one handed save from Phillips in the Crewe goal.

The Blades won them selves a corner before the half hour mark, McGinn again with the delivery, this time hit high and strong, lofted towards the back post where again Sheffield United starlet Harry Maguire was waiting. A free header across the face of goal before nestling into the goal, doubling the lead and Maguire establishing himself as Sheffield United's leading scorer so far in the campaign. The ground again erupted two
goals before half time and an attacking display, this is what the fans had wanted since the Notts County game. Captain Michael Doyle gave the ball away a few times with misdirected passes but Crewe were never really able to capitalise, the defence shutting up shop. Ryan Flynn was having a better game but again looked weak sometimes going forward. McMahon had a chance running forward with the ball splitting the Crewe defence, but he was brought down at the edge of the box, on this occasion the referee making a poor decision letting play continue. The pace slowed down and Crewe were relying solely on long balls along with desperate and poor through balls, which were easily mopped up by the back four, especially Maguire, who was then distributing the ball forward better than most midfielders. The half came to an end and The Blades were on track to getting another home win under the belt.

The second half started more brightly for Crewe who were now keeping the ball down as much as possible, they had a chance to pull one back, play switched to the wing where a smart curling lobbed ball was played
to the back post, but the Crewe forwards volley was hit over the bar. The Blades pretty much controlled possession from here, looking to break down Crewe, and when Simon Lappin played a glorious through ball Ryan Flynn had a burst of pace travelling down the right wing before making small cut inside past the Crewe defender tracking him and placing the ball into the nearside of the goal, three for United and Flynn showing he can in fact contribute, the roof blowing off Bramall Lane and putting United another step closer to three points. Marlon King almost made it a dream day for Nigel Clough the ball heading across the area, Many may think if King had hit the ball first time it would have been four, but his touch gave the keeper time to get out and block his effort. This would mark the last of Kings involvement for the day, the crowd again making a great deal of noise as Shaun Miller was introduced to the game. A corner from Crewe resulted in them hitting the cross bar as the visitors tried desperately to salvage some pride from the game.

Picture Courtosy of Dan Wynn
@Carpmandanw
Crewe managed to grab a goal with just under fifteen minuets to go, a counter attack against the run of play lead to a through ball to Max Clayton, Neil Collins flailing as the last line of defence and kicking at air as well as George Long coming out without making himself big let Clayton slot home easily.  On the eighty first minute Connor Coadey came on to replace a very tired Taylor who had run himself into the ground, this was the story for most of the squad who were not used to playing this in your face win the ball style. The game had lost its momentum at this point which was frustrating, but the match was won and the team looked exhausted.  With the exception of Lappin being replaced by Cuvelier, the match had no real significant events in the final moments and after four minutes of added time The Blades and new chief Nigel Clough could celebrate a much needed three points. A rebirth of confidence and The Blades leaving the bottom four, one would hope that now the Blades can push on, and whilst no one is expecting us to climb the table so dramatically promotion is a possibility, we all expect us to build a strong foundation for next seasons promotion prospects.

Jonathan Gascoigne





Wednesday 23 October 2013

Captain Not So Fantastic



Its no secret to Blades fans that we have a problem in Michael Doyle, his shortcomings in his ability to pass and his tackles making little or no impact leave many frustrated.  And despite his winner against Port Vale, his notion to shoot from long range and often miss by a country mile does little more than leave fans furious.  On one occasion he actually cleared the roof of the Kop from twenty yards outside the box, to do this on purpose is no easy achievement so to do it accidentally from a shot highlights why many get wound up about it.

But its not just his technical ability many fans who travelled to Crewe last season witnessed him argue with a fan, clearly hearing him use obscenities towards the spectator. Whilst Doyle was being heckled by many of the crowd after a poor pass he chose to aim his tirade at an adolescent who was stating he made a poor decision in passing the ball out wide to a marked player, one of the few fans who didn't use any obscene language, this not only caused outrage but did not set a good example to younger players, and certainly showed his merits to be captain were questionable.  To the Skippers credit after the final whistle instead of heading down the tunnel he headed to the Blades following and apologised to the fan he had verbally attacked, but by then the damage had been done and the crowd was against him.  Whether as a midfielder or as a Captain the question remains does Michael Doyle merit his place in the team, the armband and his earnings, or is it time he was moved on?
Whilst Doyle does put in a shift each game he does a lot to actually hinder the team, this is not an attitude issue it stems more that Doyle is more the calibre of player to be a first team regular in League Two.

Midfield Replacement
To succeed in this division The Blades are going to need a Midfielder who not only gives one hundred percent each game, but also has the technical ability to give us the edge in games. So who are our options?


Antoni Sarcevic is a young man with lots of potential, this youngster worked under Dario Gradi at Crewe and has been touted to be a success. Technically gifted and strong on the ball, this young man could link up nicely with the team both going forward and helping out in defence. He has scored goals everywhere he has been and also bagged a lot of assists.
At his young age it could be the right time to bring the lad up a level to League One and let him be Doyle's replacement. Currently playing for Fleetwood he is a realistic target, his wage would be considerably less than Doyle, and of course the Transfer fee would not take a huge chunk of Prince Abdullah's investment.


Salva Rivas is a former Spanish Under Nineteens International currently playing for Real Oviedo, a team famously saved from ceasing to exist by investors worldwide, investors who were ordinary people, saved by the public, but not saved from playing in the Spanish equivalent of League Two. The young defensive midfielder has expressed his desire to move away from Real Oviedo and now could be a great time to convince him to come to England. Like many Spanish youngsters he is no stranger to stroking the ball around the pitch and dictating tempo, but many feel the reason he never progressed to higher levels in Spain was his inability to stop making crunching 'British' style tackles and going against the Spanish philosophy and breaking their ranks by taking the fight to the opposition, rather than awaiting the chance to counter attack. To me he sounds like the perfect midfielder and could be the ideal replacement.


The Blades are no stranger to Michael Tongue, we all know what he can and can not do. In League One Michael Tongue despite being no spring chicken could be a vital part of pushing on, he has the ability to be a playmaker and the ability to dig in. Whilst he has soiled his good name by playing for our enemy up the M1 he thrilled us by showing his disdain for our city rivals scoring against them last season.
I think this may be the least popular of my picks but I for one think its time to bring Michael Tongue home.




Captain Replacement
Whilst the above are more than able to replace Doyle as a midfielder, with the exception of Michael Tongue they aren't the type of players who have the experience and ability to lead our dressing room.  This would leave us with the predicament of who should get the armband?

The first and most obvious choice would be the experienced centre back. Neil Collins has worn the armband before, he knows the team, his attitude is without question that of a modern professional, but would we have the same problems we have with Doyle? Whilst he has the experience some fans claim he is now in a position where we need a better option and Neil should become back up. Whether you agree with this or not whilst he is in the first team I believe he is a better option for the captaincy than Michael Doyle.

Whilst already a fan favourite and showing why he is so highly thought of is Harry Maguire ready to be our leader? A tall strong yet technically sound centre half surely the perfect candidate for captaincy, but we all forget that Harry is only twenty years of age. Harry still sometimes makes those mistakes that come with being a youngster, and its good he has the experience of Collins next to him, some may argue that while ever Harry is making these errors its not the time to make him captain, but is that missing the point? Harry is at an age where he needs to keep his head on his shoulders, he is still in danger of going of the rails as all young players who earn a large wage are. The added responsibility of being a leader and setting an example could actually help keep Harry's feet on the ground and improve him even more as a footballer. Is it time we gave Harry the armband and let him run with it. Its a risk but is it one worth taking?

Looking elsewhere is not always the solution, but in this case is it a vein effort looking for a new captain amongst the current crop? Would it make more sense to purposely go out looking for a proven leader whilst looking to strengthen another position. Much like the Harry option its a risk, but like all risks they have to be calculated, and looking elsewhere would involve a lot of research and scouting.

Jonathan Gascoigne

The Gaffer


After a few weeks wait the bookies were proven right again as Nigel Clough became our new manager on a two year deal, also bringing his own staff into the fold, Gary Crosby and Andy Garner who will join Clough at Bramall Lane. It was a quick appointment and one it was clear the club was very pleased to make.  I like many Blades watched the interview on Sky Sports news when the announcement was made and despite some previous reservations on Clough I was satisfied with his answers.  
He seems down to earth, the claims of getting back to the Premier League soon by the chairman did not faze him and remained rooted to his position, first things first we have to turn around the embarrassing start to the season and salvage some self respect, I as a fan know this to be true and its refreshing to finally have a manager who shares my opinion.  Below are some of the comments made in the Press conference.

"We'll try and build a team, a squad here that's capable of challenging for promotion. We're not miracle workers - it takes time to mould and recruit a team and to get them to play in the way you want them to play." This is more realistic than Weirs approach of I will make you play my way despite your inability to do so, whilst I am not expecting us to start reverting to sunday league tactics it is clear we are not ready to stroke the ball around playing tika taka. "To be realistic - let's get out of the bottom four. Let's get some stability this season and we'll take it from there. We'll assess the squad and see what we need.", I am fifty
fifty on this comment, I do agree stability and points on the board are what we need right now, but also there are certain players and positions that in my opinion need short term fixes before January where we can fully resolve them.  On leaving Derby - "I was disappointed (to leave Derby). There was an element of anger there as well. I thought we had a very good four-and-a-half years there. I tried to turn the club's fortunes around and I've left them in a very good position.", as he was a lad who grew up there and of course has his fathers legacy beginning there I can understand his frustration and sorrow at how things turned out. "The potential attracted me to Sheffield United. My feeling of this place is that it is a proper football club and anyone in the game will know what I mean by that." I agree the club has limitless potential, its just we have not been able to unlock it. I think its now just a case of waiting, we can all speculate on the new gaffers approach, his team selection and his tactics, I myself did so in my potential candidates review (Plan B) but until the whistle blows at three on Saturday afternoon all will remain a mystery.

But I think it is safe to say we all have the same thing on our minds, Welcome to Bramall Lane Nigel and show us what you can do, lets hope by the end of the season we are calling you Cloughy.



Jonathan Gascoigne
Video from SheffieldUTube on YouTube
Image Copyrighted to Blades Sports Photography 

The Best Foot Forward


People can say what they want about Chris Morgan, I myself do not believe he is ready for full time management yet, but despite starting with a loss the Blades no nonsense caretaker has sparked life back into the season.  He learnt his lesson from the first half of the Coventry game and learned whilst playing football does not mean hitting the ball down the pitch as high and hard as possible, he also realised it also does not involve holding it and passing sideways for ninety minuets without attacking.

The Blades controlled the early goings of the game, getting the ball forward nicely and testing the waters in and around the Vale goal.  It was obvious early on that the Port Vale keeper was going to have a shaky afternoon, flapping around and spilling easy catches and saves.
The first goal of the game came from defender Neil Collins, the centre half putting his header in from an early Blades corner.  Things got worse for Vale after a former player for our city rivals (Danny Jones) was sent off for his second bookable offence, the red card came early in the game and left the Vale team in chaos.

It did not surprise many Blades fans to see ex manager Adams in a touchline row with Jennison Myrie-Williams, after substituting the forward in order to stabilise the team after Jones was dismissed. Many remember Adams was a Marmite character at Bramall Lane even with players.  Whilst we again took control of the game the fans were stunned and the mood was deflated by a freak goal from Port Vale, Adam Yates crossed the ball and a freak bend in movement helped it fortuitously nestle into The Blades goal.  Even Yates himself did not realise he had scored until he was surrounded by his team mates congratulating him on grabbing the equaliser, the shocked look on his face said it all "How has that gone in?"

Half Time came and went, and as the referee blew the whistle it became clear that Vale had a swift kick from boss Adams as they showed a lot more energy right from the start, whilst we again looked the better team they came at us more, the goal giving them new belief, and against a team that had not won since game day one, why not. Michael Doyle again was not impressing the Sheffield United faithful, playing many passes astray, one ball in particular a player five yards in front showed to much for Doyle who passed the ball three yards sideways straight for a vale throw in, one must think the linesman was in space and screaming for it, it would explain a lot.  Tony McMahon and Ryan Flynn were also showing signs that their positions may need
looking at by our future manager, both not really doing enough to warrant a first team place, but when they are the best available you work with what you have.  Doyle did however repay his mistakes when on seventy five minuets he placed a mid paced effort from outside the box past a very inconsistent Neal in the Vale goal.  The Lane, the Kop especially erupted in a wave of relief and noise, this game was now ours to lose and we were back in control, we of course repaid the favour chanting who are you to the Vale fans who had taken a break from their vow of silence to chant it to us upon equalising.  The biggest cheer of the game came as Shaun Miller was introduced to the game coming on as a substitute, his first appearance since rupturing his cruciate ligaments last boxing day.  The reception left Miller 'humbled' in his own words, but we were all glad to see him back and he repaid us by throwing himself straight into the action.  He almost fired in a third after getting on the end of a threw ball but fired his one on one chance straight at Neal, rustiness in front of goal cost him a comeback goal, but he should be encouraged he was able to find the space in the first place.  The final whistle went and again the cheers shook the Lanes foundation, finally three points and at last the pressure of being without a win since game one gone.


A daunting away trip to second in the division Peterborough, a risk of Saturdays hard work being undermined by a swift return to losing ways.  But that was never the case in the mind of the players and staff, testing the high flyers by hitting the woodwork courtesy of a Lyle Taylor twenty yard strike.  A good save from George Long denied Tommy Rowe, the match along with it's forgettable action ended in a goaless draw.  The first away point of the season and now it seems the team is ready and prepared to push on, the new Manager will still have a lot of hard work to do but thanks to Chris Morgan and a new attitude at least now he has the basis to start building the revival of the season.


Jonathan Gascoigne