Sheffield United manager, Chris Wilder, has given fans a welcomed boost with the news that both John Fleck and Jack O’Connell could be fit and ready to go against Newcastle this Sunday.
The pair missed the midweek draw at Aston Villa with respective injuries. Wilder, at the time, confirmed both were simply contact injuries from training and that he was hopeful that Fleck, at least, would be fit for Sunday.
John Fleck (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
However, speaking ahead of the clash with Newcastle, the Blades gaffer has admitted that neither player is fully ruled in or out just yet. Confirmed by BBC Radio Sheffield reporter, Adam Oxley, Wilder said he was hopeful for both players.
#sufc boss Chris Wilder says Jack O’Connell has had his scan but was tight-lipped on the results after his team news was leaked earlier this week. CW did say that both JOC & John Fleck have a chance of playing at Newcastle.#twitterblades@footballheaven
— Adam Oxley (@adam3oxley) June 19, 2020
That comes as a potentially massive plus for Wilder and United, who missed Fleck in particular at Villa Park. In fairness to Jack Robinson, he deputised quite well for O’Connell.
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On the other hand, United’s midfield looked a bit lost without Fleck’s guile and drives forward. Wilder will be desperate to see the Scot back and firing if possible.
A huge boost that could life the entire mood – Sheffield United News View
There is no point pretending anyone is in a particularly good mood following the game at Villa. The goal-line tech, VAR, and overall performance of the players has left everyone a little deflated.
However, this Sunday is a prime chance to get three points. Newcastle will be a game behind United in terms of sharpness and that could prove crucial. Likewise, having Fleck and O’Connell, or even both, available for selection would also lift the mood.
With a tough run coming up, this game is one United need to win if we really harbour ambitions of Europe. Fleck, then, could prove to be the tipping point that moves the game in our favour.
