Rhys Norrington-Davies put in an impressive performance for Sheffield United against Middlesbrough today in a hard-fought 2-2 draw.
The Welsh international was thrust into a left centre-back slot, as new signing Ciaran Clark missed out through injury alongside fellow left-footer Ben Osborn. For Norrington-Davies, it was a move to the inside from his usual slot at left wing-back, where Max Lowe played today.
On the day, Norrington-Davies played well and could have won a penalty as well. And speaking about the Welshman’s performance, Jack O’Connell was quick to praise his teammate.
“I think you take a point at Middlesbrough. I think Rhys (Norrington-Davies) was excellent in that position. He hasn’t played there much but I think he did really well,” O’Connell said on SUTV.
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
Fellow pundit for the day and former United midfielder Mark Duffy also praised Norrington-Davies, suggesting he was the man of the match for United on the day, while he also had some kinds words for Max Lowe as well.
“I though Rhys was brilliant I probably will give him man of the match. He was really aggressive, on the front foot. And then Max Lowe, started a little bit sloppy, lost his man for the goal but thought second half he was better. Showed really good character to step up,” Duffy said of the Blades left-sided duo.
Our View: More To Come From Lowe And Norrington-Davies
It was certainly a poor opening 45 minutes from Max Lowe, who seems to be struggling to really get going in a red and white shirt this season. But as Duffy says, and in fairness to Lowe himself, he grew into things in the second period.
For Norrington-Davies, it was another strong showing. Indeed, there is a growing feeling among some United fans that he might actually be the long-term O’Connell replacement the club is looking for.
There is more to come from both this season. Lowe can take confidence from that second 45, while Norrington-Davies will hope to keep his place if Clark remains out against Sunderland.
