The Blades have been dealt a blow ahead of their clash with Manchester United in two weeks time.
Chris Wilder will be forced into making a change to his starting XI, with Dean Henderson denied permission to play against his parent club.
As reported by the Sheffield Star, Henderson will miss the tie at Bramall Lane. The stopper is currently in his second spell with the Blades. He was beaten at Spurs yesterday but has kept five clean-sheets this season already.
Consequently, that form has seen him rewarded with England recognition. Indeed, he is set to be recalled by Gareth Southgate today with Tom Heaton pulling out of the squad.
Henderson has been an ever-present this term. He has been pretty much faultless in his performances barring a mistake at home against Liverpool.
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Who’s going to step in
Simon Moore is the obvious choice to step in for Henderson. The Blades understudy has been the number two to Henderson for two seasons nearly.
He has drawn praise for his professionalism and is known to have a close relationship with the Man United youngster.
Subsequently, with Moore manning the sticks, it probably means a first Premier League squad call for new signing, Michael Verrips.
The ‘keeper joined United in the summer. Chris Wilder recognising the need for three goalkeepers in his Premier League squad.
No panic
Henderson is key for United but they shouldn’t panic about Moore stepping in.
He’s an experienced goalkeeper and played a key role as the club won promotion from League One. He’s stepped in for Henderson before and is a more than capable stopper.
Moore will enter the game with the full backing of his manager, Chris Wilder. Furthermore, United will have been aware of this situation when they signed ‘Hendo’.
As a result, it’s nothing Chris Wilder won’t have prepared for and he will have full trust in Simon Moore as the Blades host Manchester United.