James Shield's Blades video verdict: Sheffield United very much a work in progress

James Shield, The Star's Sheffield United expert, believes the Blades are a work in progress still.
Mark Duffy has a shot at goalMark Duffy has a shot at goal
Mark Duffy has a shot at goal

But, speaking after their 1-1 draw with Rochdale this afternoon, James says that Blades boss Chris Wilder will be pleased with the attitude shown by his players as they avoided a third straight defeat thanks to Billy Sharp's equaliser.

"It was a mixed reaction from Chris after the game," James said.

Mark Duffy has a shot at goalMark Duffy has a shot at goal
Mark Duffy has a shot at goal
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"He wanted three points and it was United's most chequered performance of the season - but crucially one that's delivered their first point of the season.

"It's still very early days - still a learning process for players and coaching staff. There's not been a lot of time on the training ground because of fixtures, but the one thing they've learned out there today is that they won't give up.

"It was scrappy and decision making left a little to be desired in the final third - there wasn't a steady stream of opportunities - but they kept going and that persistence gave them rewards.

"The first point takes a bit of pressure off and will help accelerate the process of making their decision-making better and help them be a little bit braver on the ball."