John Fleck has sung the praises of both Tommy Doyle and James McAtee as Sheffield United prepare to face Reading.
The Blades are in the midst of a bit of a tricky spell at the moment. Their mammoth lead at the top has been cut to four points but can be extended back to seven with a win at the Royals.
Paul Ince’s side conceded five against Middlesbrough this weekend. United will be looking at that and seeing an opportunity to get back on track.
Of course, to pick up a result, the Blades need to show more energy than they did at Blackburn. That means younger, fresher legs like Doyle and McAtee could come back in.
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And speaking about the pair, experienced midfielder John Fleck had nothing but praise for the Man City loanees.
“They’ve been brilliant. First and foremost, really nice boys. Tommy’s had a loan spell before so at the beginning you could see he was that bit more experienced to the level. Macca’s really upped his game from the start and he just looks a lot stronger and quicker than when he first came,” Fleck said in his presser.
“”He’s (McAtee) been great. Since the first week you can see a massive difference, even just his body shape he looks taller and stronger. Obviously credit to the guys here looking after him but most importantly himself working hard.”
Sheffield United News View: Doyle and McAtee can be crucial in the run-in
Both players have gone from strength to strength this season and right now, Sheffield United need them at their best.
As Fleck says, they’ve both buckled down and really bought into being at the club. Indeed, you forget they are loan players at times.
But now is the time to really up the ante. Fleck needs to be doing it as well, his experience can be vital. McAtee and Doyle, though, have that energy and fearlessness about them that can also help the Blades.
Expect at least one to start against Reading, if not both.
