Sheffield United’s winless run continued as they were seen off 2-1 by Arsenal despite another spirited display from Chris Wilder’s men in north London.
A goal late on from David McGoldrick was not enough to rescue anything for the Blades, who were two down thanks to a Bukayo Saka header and a moment of brilliance from Nicolas Pepe.
United boss Wilder made just one change. John Egan returned in place of Ethan Ampadu, while Oliver Burke continued up front with McGoldrick.
It was not to be though once more, as the Blades slipped to four consecutive defeats this season.
With that though, there were still some decent performances in the new green away kit and site writer, Lee Connor, gives his thoughts on the United XI here.
MORE UNITED STORIES
Aaron Ramsdale – 6
Made a decent save from Aubamayeng and could do little about the goals. One bad kick led to that Aubameyang chance, too.
George Baldock – 6
Another performance from Baldock and another game where he wasn’t quite at his brilliant best. Could find himself under threat from Jayden Bogle in the coming weeks.
Chris Basham – 7
Workeds hard again and did well to keep Nketiah and Aubameyang quiet in the main. Will be as frustrated as anyone with recent results.
John Egan – 7
Defended well and like Basham, kept Nketiah quiet. A welcome return from Egan and showed his class.
Jack Robinson – 7
Did little wrong once again but doesn’t offer the same attacking threat as O’Connell. Long throws a useful weapon though that we didn’t make enough of.
Enda Stevens – 6
Like Baldock, Stevens will be looking over his shoulder with Max Lowe now on board. Hasn’t looked the same since lockdown and may benefit from a rest.
Ben Osborn – 5
Worked hard but gave the ball away cheaply at times and looks a bit lost in the final third at times.
Sander Berge – 5
Cumbersome performance from Berge who offered little from midfield compared to recent weeks. Must do better if United are to get the maximum out of him for the money they paid.
John Lundstram – 5
Like the other midfielders, Lundstram worked hard but lacked quality in the right areas. Is another player who may find his place under threat.
David McGoldrick – 6
Got his goal but before that was almost anonymous. Looks so much more comfortable in a deeper role.
Oliver Burke – 6
Worked very hard once again was strangely withdrawn by Chris Wilder. There is definitely more to come from Burke over the course of the season.