Sheffield United are heading into the latest international break having conceded 26 goals in the Sky Bet Championship this season. It’s a record that needs altering and fixing. And it needs doing fast.
Under Slavisa Jokanovic, the Blades have started to look good going forward in spells. 22 goals suggests there isn’t going to be too much trouble for the team scoring goals. But in defence, things have been woeful.
Another three conceded this weekend against Blackburn was another stark reminder of the low levels this back four is currently operating at. John Egan and Chris Basham struggled, while Enda Stevens looks a shadow of his former self. On the right, Jayden Bogle had as poor a game in red and white as he’s had since he joined.
It begs the question of if another body is needed in January. And with a report this weekend suggesting Manchester United defender Phil Jones is wanted by 13 clubs, you have to wonder if the Blades are among them.
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Phil Jones to Sheffield United?
The sheer mention of Phil Jones coming to Bramall Lane is probably one that will be laughed off by most. And given his injury record and the wages he commands (£75k-a-week), those thoughts are more than acceptable.
But with Newcastle and Watford the two PL sides mentioned as being interested in Jones, that leaves 11 more. Derby are thought to be one of the Championship sides keen.
However, with the Blades’ defensive record, it wouldn’t surprise us to see Slavisa Jokanovic keeping tabs on Jones either. Yes, the injuries are bad. But beyond that, this is a player who’s won the Premier League, FA Cup, and Europa League.
Jones has also played more than 20 times for England. Let’s also not forget that Sir Alex Ferguson once claimed Jones could be Manchester United’s ‘greatest ever player’.
The Blades need to assess their loan situation in January. They currently have four. Only five max can be named in a matchday squad. And while we all know wingers are on Jokanovic’s agenda, a defender is needed as well.
If Phil Jones can prove his fitness, and Man United can subsidise some of those big wages, then it might not be the worst idea in the world.
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