Sheffield United got themselves a well-earned 1-1 draw at Arsenal this afternoon.
An equaliser from John Fleck cancelled out Gabriel Martinelli’s opener for the Gunners. Fleck’s goal, though, was just reward for another fine display from the Scottish midfielder.
John Lundstram seemed off form at Arsenal today for the Blades. (Photo by Mark Leech/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
The Blades, on the whole, put in a fine overall performance. They were unlucky to be behind heading into the break but came out and put in decent enough second-half display to snatch a point.
However, while some of the performances were good within the United ranks, not everyone had their best day.
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One of the most disappointing players for the Blades was John Lundstram. After an excellent start to the campaign, the former Everton man seems to have tailed off in the last few weeks.
Since picking up an injury and missing out at Manchester City, Lundstram has struggled to get back into the swing of things.
This was something that was picked up on Twitter by a number of Blades fans, too.
Besic has to come in for Lundstram against City. He’s just not been on it at all last few games #sufc
— Anna Wilson (@AnnaWilson79) January 18, 2020
Please please please Chrissy start besic on Tuesday lundstram needs to come out, fleck is by far our best player unbelievable today #sufc #twitterblades
— Kieran Batham (@KieranBatham) January 18, 2020
Lundstram needs dropping. Been our poorest player for the last 6 or so games. Lost form.
— Paul T Beardow (@PaulTBeardow) January 18, 2020
I really hope Lundstram doesn’t have the temerity to play hard ball over his new contract, because the fact is, he’s had 3 good months in 2 & a half years.
— Stef (@Spellstef) January 18, 2020
Think this Lord Lundstram thing gone to his head ..
Love these players, but we gotta keep improving with better ..— Chico02 (@dannyricho7) January 18, 2020
https://twitter.com/DWills_/status/1218562721068744706
Lundstram sloppy again . What more do besic have to do .#sufc
— Tom wild (@tomwild547) January 18, 2020
Our view
It’s certainly not been the best few weeks for John Lundstram and he’d probably admit himself he’s been off it a bit.
However, he is crucial to the shape United deploy. He covers wide areas and regardless of him giving the ball away at times, he is still full of running and energy in the middle of the park.
John Lundstram has been integral to Sheffield United this season but struggled at Arsenal. (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)
Chris Wilder seems to trust him, too. Dropping him now would be something of a kick in the teeth given how well he has done all season for the Blades boss.
But, Mo Besic is doing well when called upon. The Bosnian is more than ready to step in it seems if needed.
With Man City at home on Tuesday and then a crucial month in February, we could well see Wilder utilise his squad that bit more and see Lundstram drop out the odd time.
