Sheffield United have moved to send out a number of their young players out on loan today. The club has confirmed that Harrison Neal, Zak Brunt, and Kacper Lopata will all spend the second half of the season away from Bramall Lane.
The Blades opted to recall Brunt from a spell with Southend United and send him to Notts County instead. Lopata, meanwhile, has stayed with Southend, while Neal joins him there after leaving Kettering early. But out of all three deals, it is the deal to take Brunt to Meadow Lane which could interest Blades fans.
Brunt, 20, is seen as one of the brightest prospects at Bramall Lane. And while chances have been limited in red and white thus far, he’s impressed down at Roots Hall. Now, with County, he’ll have the chance to fight for promotion.
Interestingly, it was at Notts County where a certain Jack Grealish made a name for himself as a teenager. And if Brunt can emulate anywhere near what Grealish achieved, then he could be onto a winner.
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
Can Zak Brunt Have Jack Grealish Impact At Notts County
There are differences and similarities when it comes to Grealish and Brunt. Of course, the now Manchester City man was just 17 when he helped keep County in League One. Brunt, on the other hand, is 20, and really needs a good spell to ensure those at Bramall Lane keep him in their thoughts.
But there are similarities too. Both young midfielders with an eye for a goal and creativity. Both young players who feel they have a point to prove. And crucially, both footballers who just simply want to play football.
While with Notts County, a former Blade in the form of Jamal Campbell-Ryce lauded Grealish.
“As soon as he got onto the grass, from the first five minutes, everyone could see the talent and ability he had. Jack was easily the best young player and player I’ve seen live and actually played with. He has this gift where he just glides past players and attracts players to the ball then makes the right decision,” Campbell-Ryce told Talksport.
That season, Grealish scored five goals in 37 League One appearances. He is largely credited helping County stay in the division at the time.
For Brunt, the challenge is at the other end of the scale. League Two beckons for County if they get it right. They sit five points off top spot. It’s well within reach, and Brunt can be a key part.
So while Meadow Lane fondly remembers Jack Grealish’s contributions, it could be time for a new hero in the form of Zak Brunt. Certainly, the Sheffield United youngster will be determined to do all he can to make promotion a reality.
