Former Sheffield United striker, Callum Robinson, continued his good week with Ireland by netting a hat-trick against Qatar last night to make it five goals in two during the break.
Robinson had previously hit just the one international goal before netting twice at the weekend and following it up with a well-taken triple against the lowly middle-eastern outfit last night. For the West Brom striker, it was a welcome return to form and a nice confidence booster.
For Sheffield United fans, it gave some the chance to once again vent their frustration at the fact Chris Wilder traded Robinson for some money, and Oliver Burke. In fairness, it’s easy to see why it annoys supporters.
But that’s mainly down to the fact that Burke has been woeful. Seemingly obsessed by his social media presence rather than playing football at the moment, Burke has been one of the worst signings in recent history. There is simply no getting away from that.
However, the mild obsession – by some – over Robinson needs questioning.
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Same Old Story
There is a perception with Callum Robinson that he is suddenly a prolific goalscorer since leaving United. Whether it’s because he’s an easy name for us Blades fans to notice when he does score is open for debate. But the notion he is ‘what we are missing’ is a myth.
Robinson scored just a single goal for United in the top-flight. Chris Wilder had initially signed him with thoughts of using him in a front three as he is at West Brom now. But the emergence of John Lundstram in midfield meant Robinson struggled.
With West Brom, Robinson hasn’t exactly lit the world up either. He scored just 3 in 16 during his initial loan spell in the Championship. The following year, he managed 5 Premier League goals, but only actually scored in different games. That trend has continued this season, with Robinson finding the net just three times in ten. In fact, the Ireland striker hasn’t scored for seven games now, despite playing in a team challenging for promotion.
Moving On
As mentioned, it’s easy to notice when Robinson does score. Just as it is easy to wonder how we ended up with Oliver Burke in return.
But there is little point in dwelling on Robinson and the past. Sure, he’d probably be ok in this Slavisa Jokanovic side. But that’s it, he’d just be a half-decent member of the squad. No better than what we have, and certainly no more prolific.
Robinson has enjoyed a fine week of international football. But that’s all it is, and all it should ever be in the eyes of United fans.
The Blades have moved on, and the rest of the fanbase clinging to a false narrative on Callum Robinson must do so too.