Sheffield United are back in the swing of things in pre-season training, with the majority of the squad now back training at Shirecliffe.
Only a handful of players, including Sander Berge, are still away on their summer breaks. But this week has seen the likes of Iliman Ndiaye and George Baldock return to Shirecliffe ahead of a flight out to Portugal this month.
Pre-season brings a chance for younger players and fringe players from last season to impress. And it’s also a time for any trialists to show their worth and earn a contract.
And after we reported yesterday that former Bournemouth man Chris Francis was training with United, the latest Inside Shirecliffe footage released from the club does indeed confirm Francis is with the squad.
The 20-year-old can be seen entering the building in high spirits with Oliver Arblaster before being spotted out on the training pitch.
A number of younger players are also involved in the sessions. Frankie Maguire is spotted briefly, while highly-rated forward Louis Marsh also keeps his place around the first-team. Andre Brooks is also among the group.
As usual, Stuart McCall can be heard getting into the players during drills. The Blades assistant demanding sharpness and quality on the ball in a simple passing drill.
Sheffield United News View: Taking a proper look
It does seem like Chris Francis is getting a good and proper fair crack of the whip here. He’s been with United since last week and could well end up on the plane to Portugal as well.
It makes sense for United to run the rule over him properly as well. Clearly, there is a talented player in there, given he was offered terms by a Premier League club only 12 months back.
For Francis himself, it’s a great chance to prove himself with a big club. While for United, he could represent a very cheap addition to the squad to add defensive cover.