Euro 2020 has finally arrived and while there’s not too many Sheffield United players on display, Blades supporters will still be tuning in.
Ireland’s lack of qualification means the likes of John Egan and Enda Stevens won’t get their chance. Norway also missed out, robbing Blades fans the chance to see Sander Berge and the world to see Erling Haaland.
But, fear not. There’s still plenty of players for Sheffield United fans to keep an eye on. Whether that be current players, or potential signings.
Here’s who we think Sheffield United supporters should be keeping tabs on during Euro 2020.
Rhys Norrington-Davies – Wales
The Welsh defender is returning to Bramall Lane this summer after spells out on loan. He impressed at Stoke City and Luton, and could get his chance on the European stage with Wales.
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Norrington-Davies caught the eye during the pre-tournament friendlies. His no-nonsense tackle against Albania caught media attention. As did his performance.
With Enda Stevens on his summer holidays, this is a big chance for ‘RND’ to impress the onlooking Slavisa Jokanovic.
John Fleck – Scotland
Fleck has seen his prepartion for the Euros disrupted by Covid-19 but he’s still someone who could play a part.
Granted, he wasn’t at his flowing best for much of last season. He’s also unlikely to start for Scotland. But, should Steve Clarke need a bit of guile from the midfield, Fleck could be his man.
A good summer will also stand him in good stead for next year. Something Blades fans will be very hopeful of.
Ethan Ampadu – Wales
Ampadu has returned to Chelsea after his loan spell with United came to an end. In fairness to the young defender, he did do pretty well in what was a nightmare season for the club in general.
Wales rate Ampadu highly. It’s very likely he will play a lot of minutes and it’s a big chance for him to catch the eye.
Ampadu faces an uncertain summer. But a big performance in the coming weeks could make all the difference.
David Brooks – Wales
The former Blade is remembered fondly at Bramall Lane. Not least for his nutmeg on Jack Hunt, but for being a fine player who the club developed.
Brooks will hope to play a major role for Wales. He’s one of the key attacking players in their squad, with ability to win a game with a moment of magic.
Che Adams – Scotland
Another former Blades who moved on to bigger and better things, Adams has forced his way into the Scotland party.
He’s likely to play a big role as well. The Scots have taken just the three ‘strikers’. Adams is one of them, along with Kevin Nisbet and Lyndon Dykes.
Coincidentally, Adams is likely to get the minutes that current Blade Oli McBurnie might have been afforded. There’s no ill-feeling from Unitedites towards Adams, so most will be wishing him well (apart from against England).
Harry Maguire, Kyle Walker, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Conor Coady and Dean Henderson – England
It’s a testament to the success of the United academy and the first-team in recent seasons that we list five England players.
Walker and Maguire will play if fit. The pair came through the ranks at Shirecliffe, as did Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who will be back up to Harry Kane up top.
Coady enjoyed a fine loan spell under Nigel Clough and has since gone on to captain Wolves in the PL. Finally, Dean Henderson is a cult-hero of the club after his two loan spells at Bramall Lane.
It’s unheard of for the Blades to have such a big presence in the England squad. Hopefully, all five can impress and help the Three Lions to glory.