Sheffield United striker Rhian Brewster is one of a number of players who’ll be hoping to make a big impression on new manager Slavisa Jokanovic.
To say Brewster’s move from Liverpool hasn’t exactly gone as planned would be an understatement. No goals, and just a smattering of half-decent performances have left some Blades fans scratching their heads.
However, there’s a belief in the United around Brewster. Chris Wilder always knew he was one for the future. As we understand it, Wilder bought Brewster for that reason and he wasn’t intended to be the main man last season.
But after a year in Sheffield and with Wilder gone, the time has come for Brewster to make his mark you feel. Jokanovic starts work ‘officially’ this week. But the players will already know what’s coming.
Hard work
During this week’s Behind the Scenes video on YouTube, Brewster is given a stark warning from one member of the squad or backroom team. The striker is told that his schedule will see him ‘murdered’, in a sign that there’s some hard work to come for the forward.
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Jokanovic has apparently already made it clear he won’t be carrying any passengers. Hard work at Sheffield United Football Club is a given. It was an ethos instilled by Wilder, and one which Jokanovic will hopefully carry over.
For Brewster, it’s vital he buys into this and delivers. Blades fans have been patient with him. But the Championship is where he’s proven, so this season is his time to shine.
Learning
Most Blades fans will admit the prospect of a Brewster and McBurnie partnership at Championship level is exciting. Of course, United have a depth of talent in the forward positions.
But that’s where Brewster needs to capitalise. He should spend the summer working with Billy Sharp in and around the box. David McGoldrick is there as well to offer insight and experience on how to link the play.
Daniel Jebbison’s emergence should also give Brewster a rocket. After all, ‘Jebbo’ arguably did more in his few appearances than Rhian did all season.
Essentially, it’s all down to Brewster now. The hard work starts for him and he faces a huge summer. Come August, United fans will be expecting and demanding a return on that £20m investment.