Sheffield United have quite the reputation for developing young talent at Shirecliffe and it seems they have another on the way through in Will Lankshear.
Lankshear, who is still just 16, was picked up by the Blades from Premier League giants Arsenal. The youngster penning scholarship terms with United back in February of this year.
And since his arrival in Sheffield, Lankshear has enjoyed quite the rise at both under-18 and 23s level.
Goals galore for Will Lankshear
It seems the Blades are reaping the rewards from the hard work put into the academy in the last few years.
Jack Lester heads up that department for United now, and top level coaches such as Del Geary and Paul Heckingbottom are certainly earning their money. Of course, there are others within the system who also deserve credit.
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Lankshear has certainly hit the goal-trail since his arrival. He netted twice at the weekend as the under-23s won 3-1 against Everton. At just 16, Lankshear is certainly playing beyond his years. That double against the Toffees means it’s now 20 in just 17 appearances for United.
The teenager has hit four in four at under-23 level, with 16 in just 13 games coming for the under-18s. Certainly, he’s making a case to be the next big thing to emerge at United.
One of many
United have already reaped the benefits in recent times in terms of academy prospects. Antwoine Hackford made his debut under Chris Wilder in the Premier League. And while we’ve not seen Hackford since, he is highly-rated in S2.
Daniel Jebbison burst onto the scene last year, too. He scored at Everton, and has since sealed a loan spell to Burton Albion for this season. And now with Iliman Ndiaye producing the goods, things are looking up for the Blades with their youngsters.
Even beyond those three, United have seen glimpses from others. Kacper Lopata has already played, as has Zak Brunt. Ky Gordon has been in and around the first XI, while Femi Seriki is out on loan in Belgium.
Lankshear, then, appears to be just another name in a long line of serious talent emerging from the Sheffield United academy.