Former Sheffield Wednesday striker, Clinton Morrison, says the rise of Sheffield United is a “brilliant story.”
Morrison, who also played in the Premier League for Birmingham City and Crystal Palace, was speaking about the Blades’ prospects of qualifying for the Champions League.
Currently sixth in the table, United could qualify for the competition if they can finish one place higher. That is because Manchester City’s ban from Europe means fifth could now be enough.
For a newly promoted club this is an impressive position to be in. Especially considering the resources at manager Chris Wilder’s disposal.
“You have to give huge credit to teams like Sheffield United and Wolves that are up there – brilliant,” Morrison told Talksport.
“Both managers, Nuno (Espirito Santo of Wolves) and, in particular, Wilder – fantastic job.
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“Not really spent loads of money, for where Sheffield United are, and they’ll fancy their chances if it is a fifth-placed team (that qualifies). Imagine Sheffield United in the Champions League. It’d be a brilliant story.”
Is the former Wednesday forward right about Sheffield United?
Considering it is a little more than three years ago that the Blades were bottom of League One, it has been some improvement under Wilder.
Two promotions in three seasons have followed and they have taken the top flight in their stride.
They have already taken points off the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur. The Blades also have the second best defensive record in the division, only behind leaders Liverpool.
Having already played the Reds and Manchester City twice this term, they will fancy their chances of pushing for a top five finish with a favourable run coming up.
Their next match is at home to Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday. After that they face fellow newly promoted sides, Aston Villa and Norwich City.