It’s been a while since Sheffield United fans heard much about Antwoine Hackford, but it appears the teenager is making a comeback.
Hackford had been in and around the first-team when Chris Wilder was in charge. Indeed, Hackford was even given a Premier League debut at just 16 as Wilder threw him on at Crystal Palace.
But since then, it’s been quiet for Hackford, who has apparently been out injured. He posted on social media a month or two back to show him working his way back to fitness. And now, the Sheffield United Development Twitter account has confirmed today Hackford is back in the picture.
RONALDO, BALE AND 5 FAILED PREMIER LEAGUE HOMECOMINGS
The 21s are taking on Birmingham City today and Hackford has been included in the travelling party, albeit, not in the actual squad.
It remains to be seen if Paul Heckingbottom looks at Hackford this season. With the likes of Daniel Jebbison and Will Osula seemingly ahead of him now, the 18-year-old faces a long road back.
However, United’s lack of strikers, coupled with injuries to Jebbison and Rhian Brewster, may open the door for Hackford if he can come back fit and firing.
Sheff U News View: Hackford can still make an impression
You don’t get picked by Wilder in the Premier League if you don’t have something about you. Hackford achieved a dream that day and it would be nice to see him return and kick on.
Sure, Hackford will have a long road ahead. He needs to get back fit and playing. From there, he needs to show he’s too good for the 21s level and force his way into Heckingbottom’s thinking.
Hackford was picked out by The Guardian as one to watch previously. Described as being ‘rapid’ and highly-rated by Wilder, it will certainly be interesting to see what Hackford can do.
