Carl Asaba has praised Sheffield United midfielder James McAtee for the impact he had as Sheffield United beat Wolves this weekend.
McAtee was introduced for the injured Rhian Brewster and had a huge effect on the game as United squeezed out a 2-1 win.
McAtee was Paul Heckingbottom’s number one target all summer before landing him close to deadline day.
And after coming off the bench yesterday, former Blades striker Asaba felt the Manchester City loanee was outstanding.
Carl Asaba praises James McAtee after Sheffield United v Wolves
Speaking on SUTV after the game, Asaba was quick to praise McAtee’s impact.
“I think that transformed us (Brewster going off) in that McAtee came on, the formation changed a little bit, you had McAtee and Hamer in behind, filled midfield, they pressed,” Asaba said.
“McAtee was just a handful. You know, the way he was driving at their defence was just brilliant to see and you know, he’s doing what he was doing in the Championship in the Premier league and he’s just so hard to contain.”
Sheffield United News View: McAtee going to be key
It was a big decision by Heckingbottom to go with Rhian Brewster from the start and leave McAtee on the bench but one that paid off in the end.
Over the course of the season, the City loanee is going to be so big for United. He has the ability to carry the ball, beat players, and create goals from nothing. With the Blades not flush when it comes to scoring goals and getting big chances, that ability is going to be key.
McAtee did indeed change the game and there’s no doubt he is now pushing for a start next weekend.
With more players set to come back from injury as well, things are starting to look up for the Blades, who face a huge few weeks with more winnable fixtures to come.