Sheffield United fans have been told to be careful in their criticism of Slavisa Jokanovic, with Ian Holloway insisting the former Fulham coach is the best man for the job in S2.
The Blades lost out at home once again last night as Millwall snatched a late winner at Bramall Lane. It was a disappointing middle of the week for Jokanovic’s side, who had came back to beat Stoke at the weekend. Indeed, Holloway praised the Blades after that win, suggesting it was a sign the club are ready to fight for promotion.
Question Marks
Some Blades fans have started to question Jokanovic already. Certain tactical calls, decisions to leave some players out, and a number of dire results, have led to some to believe the Serbian is struggling.
However, despite last night’s performance and defeat, former Blackpool, QPR, and Crystal Palace manager Holloway insisted Blades fans should be careful with what they wish for.
“I really like him, I think he’s a class act. If I was a Sheffield United supporter, I’d have been very careful who I wanted to get the job after Chris Wilder, and I’d be delighted Jokanovic has got it,” Holloway told FootballLeagueWorld.
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“The way they came down, they were so down. It’s a rebuilding job. I think it was a very tough take for anyone and I really like Jokanovic. I like the style he tries to play, I think he wants to dominate the ball, I think he wants to pin you back. It is that modern way of playing.”
Last night’s loss left United six points off the top six with a quarter of the season now gone. A trip to Barnsley this weekend gives the Blades a chance to once again try and put things right.
Our View: Patience needed with Jokanovic but some things could be better
We accept there’s an element of time being needed with Jokanovic and Sheffield United. He needs new players. Needs a few transfer windows, and needs his ideas to be implemented properly.
But on the reverse of that, some things could be better. We still look wobbly defensively as soon as we are under pressure. In midfield, we are a soft touch, and Conor Hourihane looks a pointless addition thus far.
Going forward, there is still a case of a few square pegs in round holes as well. Playing with Billy Sharp as a lone striker is leaving us short at times.
Likewise, the likes of McBurnie, Brewster, and more are not even making a contribution under Jokanovic. Surely that has to change, given we have so many options in attack.
Jokanovic will get time. But that’s three defeats in four now, and a loss at Oakwell at the weekend will put the pressure on even more.