Sheffield United midfielder Paul Coutts has today made his long-awaited return from injury, playing for the Blades in an under-23 match against Charlton Athletic.
The Scot broke his leg back in November in a Championship fixture against Burton Albion and he has been on the road to recovery ever since.
However, today, he featured for Sheffield United's under-23s, with Danny Hall from the Sheffield Star providing a team sheet from the clash with Charlton:
Coutts has made 122 appearances for the Blades since arriving at the club in 2015, scoring five goals and assisting 16 more in that time.
The 30-year-old's injury was a huge blow to Chris Wilder's side last season, with United pushing for an automatic promotion spot at the time.
The absence of the midfield man meant a loss of momentum and they tumbled down the table finishing comfortably outside the play-offs.
Even with Coutts still missing, though, Wilder has managed to get his side playing again this season and they sit third in the table after six games.
Oliver Norwood has taken over the role performed by the 30-year-old and was particularly impressive as the Blades swept Aston Villa aside last time out.
The VerdictÂ
Norwood's performances have undoubtedly been a huge positive of Sheffield United's season so far, and I doubt he will be losing his place soon.
But Coutts' return brings with it a decent show of depth and will provide important competition to keep Norwood on his toes.
The midfielder's return will be seen as a huge positive by Wilder.
Thoughts? Let us know!Â
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