Chris Wilder has revealed that there will not be much change in personnel in Sheffield United’s midfield over the course of the summer, with Paul Coutts well on the road to recovery.
Sheffield United lost Coutts to a season-ending leg-break back in November, but the midfielder will be returning to action next season, which means Wilder will shelve some of his transfer plans ahead of the summer.
Speaking to the Sheffield Star, Wilder confirmed that central midfield was unlikely to be an area to undergo major change in the summer, with the Bramall Lane boss pleased with his options:
“He (Coutts) has got Championship experience so that’s good.
“We want him back and then there’s four or five really good midfield players. That department, with Lee (Evans) coming in and improving it, with Flecky (John Fleck), John (Lundstram) and Ryan (Leonard), who gives us a different style if we need it, I don’t think they’ll be much change there in that department. The competition is good.”
In Coutts’ absence, Sheffield United’s play-off push has faltered, with the Blades now sitting 11thin the Sky Bet Championship table and five points adrift of the top-six.
There are just two fixtures of the season remaining, with Wilder’s side looking set to miss out on the play-offs.
Wilder’s side have just two victories to their name over the course of the last 10 fixtures, which has derailed their play-off push.
The Blades take on Preston North End at Bramall Lane on Saturday in the penultimate game of the season, before heading to Ashton Gate to take on Bristol City on the final day of the 2017/18 campaign.
The Verdict
Despite the disappointment of a play-off push falling away, Sheffield United can be pleased with this season’s performance.
However, Wilder will know the importance of building on this year, with his work in the transfer window set to be key.
Central midfield is probably Sheffield United’s strongest area, particularly when Coutts and Fleck are available.
Getting that duo back together in the middle of midfield will be key to the club's success next season.
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