The Blades could be handed a boost ahead of their clash with Man United, with John Egan still in with a shout of being fit.
The Irish defender was withdrawn in midweek by his country. Egan left the field at half-time thanks to what appeared to be a calf injury. At the time, it looked like Egan would have no chance of making this weekend.
However, speaking in his pre-match press conference, Chris Wilder admitted John Egan is still in with a chance of being fit for the weekend.
“Yeah he has a chance“, Wilder said.
“We’re going to give him every chance and leave it until the last minute. We have got replacements if needed. Phil Jagielka can come in and play that role if need be”.
News of Egan’s potential fitness will be a big boost for United and Chris Wilder.
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Egan has helped United to five clean-sheets this season. That has ensured they’ve got the second best defensive record in the Premier League.
Should Egan miss out, it will be the first time the back three has been disrupted all season. Chris Basham, Jack O’Connell, and Egan have started every game so far.
Blades fans right to worry about Egan but can be confident in Jagielka
While John Egan is vital for the Blades, it’s not the end of the world. Afterall, it is a squad game and this is the reason why the likes of Jagielka were signed.
‘Jags’ has all the experience in the world. He’s played against Manchester United more than once, even getting a goal at Old Trafford a few years ago.
Of course, in an ideal world Egan is fit and raring to go. Keeping continuity in the team is massive for Sheffield United and their Premier League hopes.
John Egan is key for the Blades and will be a loss. However, in Phil Jagielka, United have a more than adequate replacement for their Irish star.