Slavisa Jokanovic insists that Rhian Brewster needs to "grow up" following a frustrating start to life at Sheffield United.

Brewster was a £23.5m arrival from Liverpool under Chris Wilder last summer, but he failed to find the net in 27 Premier League appearances as the Blades were relegated last term.

A step down a division hasn't seemed to benefit Brewster, either, with the forward netting only one goal eight appearances this term.

That goal came in the Carabao Cup against Carlisle United, and in the Championship, he has started in only three of their first 11 games.

Brewster was sent off for England's Under-21s in midweek, being shown a controversial second yellow card in the 1-0 win over Andorra.

After revealing that he had held talks with Brewster, Slavisa Jokanovic also admitted that his striker needs to "grow up more" as he looks to put his woes to bed.

Jokanovic said, via Yorkshire Live: "He is one of the most talented English players, but he needs to grow up more.

"You ask about the strikers earlier, we are trying to find a balance and we play him number 10 or a winger. They are all looking to be on the pitch.

"He needs to find the capacity to adapt to a different role and we can see what type of progress we can make."

Jokanovic's men currently sit 14th in the Championship having lost their last two games, and take on Stoke City at Bramall Lane on Saturday.

The Verdict

It is really surprising to see Brewster struggle for form, especially at this level.

He was prolific for Swansea City in 2019/20, but it just seems as if last season has really affected him and Jokanovic's way of thinking.

Whether he plays out wide or through the middle, he needs to find a role which suits him, and fast.