Sheffield United boss, Slavisa Jokanovic, has laid down a challenge to misfiring striker Rhian Brewster, as the youngster looks to break his scoring duck in the Championship.
Brewster has still yet to register a league goal for the Blades since signing for around £20m last summer. To say his spell has been a disappointment so far, would be an understatement.
Things have picked up slightly of late for Brewster. A series of improved performances have left Blades fans hoping that a turning point is not far off for the former Liverpool man.
And speaking ahead of this weekend’s game with Derby at Bramall Lane, Blades boss Jokanovic revealed his backing for Brewster, but admitted the youngster needs to do more.
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Jokanovic speaks about Rhian Brewster
Brewster was widely see as one of the best talents in England when United signed him in 2020. His form for Swansea during a loan spell, coupled with his performances for the England under-21s, had convinced United to part ways with big money.
And Jokanovic, speaking to the Yorkshire Post, recognises Brewster’s talent, but believes he striker needs to trust in his abilities.
“Rhian needs to improve, definitely, to make a step forward and not be comfortable in his situation because we are talking about one of the biggest talents in English football. He needs to push himself to the highest level. We are here to help him and support him but the rest depends on him,” Jokanovic said.
“I don’t want to say he’s not working well enough, he tries, he’s focused and concentrated on all the instruction we give him. I’ve tried to use him sometimes in different positions to his natural position. Does a guy 21-years-old have a natural position? I don’t know. He needs to open his mind, trust himself and work hard with more desire, more focus, more concentration.”
Our View: Slowly slowly for Brewster but Jokanovic is righ
Most Sheffield United fans want Brewster to do well. There’s a feeling of if he gets going, then he might not stop, which can only benefit the club.
But, he must do more, as Jokanovic says. Sometimes, Brewster’s movement and lack of awareness on the field appears to hold him back. That’s something he can work on, regardless of the position he is played in.
The good thing is he seems to buying into things and giving it a good go when called upon. The goal will come eventually. From there, it will just be a matter of Rhian keeping things ticking along and contributing to the cause.
