Sheffield United got rid of midfielder Mark Duffy in the summer and John Lundstram is running the risk of being in that same boat.
The midfielder has yet to agree a new contract at Bramall Lane. The club will, according to Chris Wilder, activate a one-year extension clause in the summer regardless of if he signs a new deal or not.
John Lundstram has been in fine form this season for Sheffield United. (Photo by Daniel Chesterton/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
Lundstram got the winning goal at the weekend. After being left out for Sander Berge in the last two games, his celebration appeared to be one of minor frustration. Furthermore, after the game, he admitted he hadn’t been too happy at being dropped.
The former Everton man also spoke about a potential new deal. But rather than simply committing to saying he would sign a new deal, Lundstram simply stated he would speak to Chris Wilder and was ‘hopeful’ it would plan out.
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
But does Lundstram risk falling into the category of Duffy with this sort of stance? It’s certainly a risky game to be playing with Chris Wilder.
Why Lundstram should be putting pen to paper…and quickly
Without being overly critical, this is a player who couldn’t get into the team last season. A player who, in many fans’ eyes, was seen as someone who would have no place in a Premier League club’s midfield.
Mark Duffy was shown the door by Chris Wilder over contract demands. (Photo by Molly Darlington – AMA/Getty Images)
But to his credit, Lundstram has been superb. He’s adapted to the right-sided midfield role with aplomb. Indeed, his goal at the weekend was his fourth strike of the campaign.
However, it’s hard to see why there seems to be some stalling over a new deal. Would Lundstram get in many other teams in the Premier League? Would he even be guaranteed a Premier League move if he didn’t sign a new deal? Both are questions that a lot of fans will probably agree the answer to, is no.
It would be a crying shame for John Lundstram to go down the Mark Duffy route. Hopefully, he can sign a new deal and put this sort of talk to bed.
If, however, he continues to string things along, expect Chris Wilder to act swiftly and make the decision himself.
