If the season resumes then there are some Sheffield United players who should genuinely be in PFA team of the year contention.
The Blades have been the surprise package of the Premier League so far in 2019/20. They currently sit seventh in the table with 43 points from 28 games.
There are, of course, realistic doubts that the season could be finished at all since its postponement due to the coronavirus pandemic. It has initially been suspended until April 4, but in truth it’s likely to be postponed for longer.
Yet, as things stand, United are among the standout performers in the English top flight. This is despite them being newly promoted and it being their first campaign in the division in 12 years.
Chris Wilder’s side have real hopes of qualifying for European football for 2020/21. Especially as they have a game in hand over those teams directly above them. If they were to win that, they would rise to fifth.
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
Which Blades should be in PFA team of the year contention?
(Photo by Visionhaus)
Dean Henderson
Only one goalkeeper has kept more clean sheets that the Manchester United loanee this season and that’s Burnley’s Nick Pope.
However, the Clarets have conceded 40 goals so far this term, in comparison to the Blades’ total of 25.
Henderson himself has been in excellent form. So much so that the 22-year-old was being tipped to replace Jordan Pickford as England number one at Euro 2020. This was before the tournament was postponed for a year because of the coronavirus pandemic.
John Egan
Arguably the biggest part of that impressive defensive record is Egan. Chris Basham and Jack O’Connell are also integral, but as the centre of a three-man back line the Republic of Ireland international shoulders a lot of responsibility.
It is no coincidence that the only time the Blades have conceded three goals this season – during the 3-3 draw with Man United – was also the only league game that Egan has missed.
Enda Stevens
Much of the Blades’ success has also been built on consistency and Stevens is one of five players who has started every single league game in 2019/20.
In Wilder’s 3-5-2 system, the 29-year-old and George Baldock provide the only real width.
Not only has Stevens contributed to the impressive record at the back with his defensive work, but the Irishman also has two goals and two assists.
