2 Players Sheffield United Could Target In January
Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder told Sky Sports recently that the Blades need more signings in January in order to maintain their push back up the football ladder.
The Bramall Lane side have done extremely well this season and, all things considered, probably deserve the most plaudits, though their form has dipped somewhat in recent weeks.
They have a tough trip to Aston Villa to contend with this weekend by which time they could be looking at a run of six games without a win and really in need of adding some depth to their squad.
Here are two players Wilder may go for in January:
Gwion Edwards (Peterborough United)
In keeping with United’s policy of bringing in English-speaking players at very low cost, Edwards has been mentioned as a possible signing and would fit directly into this squad without an issue. Edwards is right footed and can play anywhere across the front rank or attacking midfield, with his versatility making him ideal for Wilder.
Having come through the ranks at Swansea, he knows how to fit into a good footballing system, though he was eventually given away on a free transfer to Peterborough when he couldn’t break into the first-team at the Liberty Stadium.
His stock is now on the rise though and after 18 League One games and 3 goals, 6 this season in total, he looks ready for a step up to the Championship and could prove to be another canny signing by the Blades.
John Egan (Brentford)
Brentford have made a very good living as a club, by bringing in cheap signings and turning them into million pound-plus sales and Egan could be the latest. United themselves are not really in the business of over-spending so any deal would need to be realistic. However, Egan looks to have plenty of quality and would be a great addition.
The Irish centre-back can easily slip into United’s back three line-up, something which was strengthened when Richard Stearman returned from a long-term injury but which still needs more backup given the club’s defensive record.
Their attacking strength is not in question, however, they can be broken down at the back rather simply, which is a concern. Egan would undoubtedly bring with him that absolute defensive solidity required to lift a team into real playoff contention.
Whoever Wilder brings in will be given the benefit of the doubt from supporters given the club’s recent transfer record and it’ll be fascinating to see who does eventually arrive.