Sheffield United defender, Kieron Freeman, is being linked with a move to Middlesbrough.
Kieron Freeman has been out of the squad for Sheffield United (Photo by Matthew Lewis/Getty Images)
The Blades defender has been on the periphery of the squad this season. With George Baldock in such fine form, Freeman has found first-team opportunities hard to come by.
His omission from the Blades’ matchday squad is perhaps harsh on him. However, manager Chris Wilder is keen on having plenty of attacking options on his bench and hasn’t found much room for Freeman.
That, coupled with Middlesbrough’s own struggles, has led to the Teeside club apparently declaring their interest in the former Derby County man. (TeamTalk)
FARO, PORTUGAL – JULY 12: Kieron Freeman of Sheffield United in action during a pre-season friendly match between Real Betis Balompie and Sheffield United FC at Estadio Algarve on July 12, 2019 in Faro, Portugal. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
Middlesbrough are hovering just above the Championship relegation zone. But for Freeman, first-team football might well be high on his agenda. Despite their struggles, Middlesbrough are a well-run club and somewhere Freeman might well be afforded the chance of regular play.
Why does Middlesbrough make sense for Kieron Freeman?
Freeman won’t want to leave to simply warm the bench. If Boro can’t promise him regular football, then there’s little point in him moving.
However, with manager Jonathan Woodgate playing a 3-5-2 formation, Freeman might well fancy himself in terms of making an impact at the Riverside. Anfernee Djiksteel played at right wing-back at the weekend, while Jonathan Howson slotted into a back three.
Both players mentioned there are not being played in their ideal position. That’s where Freeman could come into the fold, slotting seamlessly into the right-hand side.
Furthermore, Freeman would need little in the way of coaching to get used to such a system. Of course, Woodgate won’t have his team playing the same way as Chris Wilder’s men, but it won’t be too far off.
Kieron Freeman has been a loyal member of the Blades promotion story. His form in League One was one of the key reasons behind their resurgence. Indeed, that season saw him score an impressive ten goals that year.
Kieron Freeman scored ten times for the Blades in League One (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)
There’s little chance of Freeman getting a look-in at the moment barring an injury to George Baldock. Getting some first-team football under his belt now, can only benefit him, Middlesbrough, and ultimately, Sheffield United.
