Sheffield United return to Championship action this weekend after a mixed international break for its players, with John Egan and Robin Olsen among those to return from positive outings.
Egan enjoyed two wins with the Republic of Ireland and played his part in two clean-sheets, skippering his country to a 3-0 win in Azerbaijan. It was a welcome boost for the Irish, who have been struggling under manager, Stephen Kenny. Both Conor Hourihane and Enda Stevens, too, played their part.
Among those not to do so well was Rhian Brewster. The striker struggled with the England under-21s, and was given a harsh red card in Andorra to compound his misery.
However, away from Brewster, one of United’s summer signings, Robin Olsen, enjoyed a stellar few weeks. The big Swedish stopper – who joined on loan from Roma in the summer – kept two clean-sheets of his own against Kosovo and Greece respectively.
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Dealing with Pressure
Olsen has come under the microscope at Bramall Lane. A couple of mishaps have left some Blades fans sceptical over his ability to be the number one.
But Egan, speaking to the media ahead of this weekend’s clash with Stoke, insisted the club is lucky to have Olsen on the books.
“He’s a really experienced goalkeeper. Number 1 for his country, played fantastic in the international break,” Egan said.
“He’s been brilliant since he came through the door. He’s got a big presence and we’re lucky to have him.”
Olsen was brought in by Slavisa Jokanovic after both Wes Foderingham and Michael Verrips struggled. The big stopper has enjoyed spells with Everton, Malmo, and more recently, Roma.
After the last loanee goalkeeper United had in Dean Henderson, the pressure is somewhat on to make an impression for Olsen.
So far, the Swede has kept just the single clean-sheet for United, in the 1-0 home win against Derby County.
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