Sheffield United utility man and summer signing, Ben Osborn, has admitted that he ‘underestimated’ the task of breaking into the Blades first XI this season.
Osborn made the move to Bramall Lane from Nottingham Forest in the summer. Having been with Forest for his entire career, Chris Wilder swooped to add a player who had always drawn praise for his work-rate and attitude.
Ben Osborn has been heavily involved in United’s cup run this season. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
However, Osborn has struggled to break into the Blades XI this season. His starts have come in the FA Cup while he has made just a handful of Premier League appearances.
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And Osborn has admitted that he perhaps didn’t quite realise the challenge he faced when he signed.
“I did come in thinking I could get a bit more game-time than I’ve had so far“, Osborn said. (BBC Radio Sheffield)
“I thought I could break-in. But I think I underestimated the quality of player already here. Maybe underestimated the consistency that we’ve got. But I can fill in a few positions so it gives me a chance of playing a bit more.”
Osborn will be hoping to get the nod when the Blades travel to Reading this evening. He put in a fine display after replacing Enda Stevens at half-time in the draw with Brighton at the weekend.
Ben Osborn will be hoping to be given another chance for Sheffield United tonight. (Photo by Daniel Chesterton/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
A win for United would see Wilder’s men into the last eight of the FA Cup for the first time under the current manager.
Biding his time but contributing when needed
Every squad needs some players like Ben Osborn.
He’s the sort of player who digs in when needed and doesn’t seem to have an ego about him. He’s slotted in both at left wing-back and also in midfield when needed.
After impressing against Brighton, Osborn will be looking to continue that form tonight. If he can put in another good performance, it will give Chris Wilder even more food for thought in the coming weeks.
