Sheffield United have made another encouraging start to the season under Chris Wilder, who will hope his side can last the distance this year in the race for the play-offs.

Wilder has upgraded last season’s squad, with Dean Henderson, John Egan and Oliver Norwood all helping to improve the Blades’ chance of breaking into the Championship’s top-six.

Others arrived, too, with Conor Washington and Marvin Johnson amongst those.

That duo have found opportunities limited, though, although there has been an update recently on the latter – who finds himself on loan in South Yorkshire from Middlesbrough.

According to the Sheffield Star, should the Blades move to sign the 28-year-old permanently it’s unlikely Middlesbrough will stand in the way of the winger.

Johnson has made just one start this season, with a further six appearances coming from the bench.

Here at FLW, we take a look at THREE reasons why Sheffield United would be foolish to chase Johnson’s permanent signature…

For over two years now Wilder has used a 3-5-2 system, with wing-backs used ahead of natural wingers.

That’s where Johnson has featured, despite the 28-year-old arriving at Bramall Lane as a more forward-thinking player.

He doesn’t fit the system Wilder wants to play and his impact would be limited even if he signed permanently.

Since he departed Oxford for Middlesbrough, Johnson has really struggled.

In 24 Championship appearances he’s scored only one goal and struggled for regular football.

He’s not at the level Sheffield United need.

According to the Star’s report, Boro paid over £2m for Johnson.

The North East club are no mugs and won’t want to take a serious hit on Johnson when he departs.

Paying anywhere close to £2m for Johnson wouldn’t be a wise move from the Blades.

Money should be spent elsewhere on the team.

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