Sheffield United: Cuvelier can step into the breach as Blades go with the Flo

Nigel Adkins is set to reward Florent Cuvelier with a key role in Sheffield United's first team squad after praising the Belgian midfielder's 'exemplary attitude.'
Florent Cuvelier made his long-awaited comeback from injury against Port ValeFlorent Cuvelier made his long-awaited comeback from injury against Port Vale
Florent Cuvelier made his long-awaited comeback from injury against Port Vale

Cuvelier, whose career at Bramall Lane has been plagued by serious injury, made his first appearance for the club since December 2014 against Port Vale last weekend.

With Jose Baxter facing a lengthy suspension after failing a drugs test during the build-up to the match, Adkins admitted coaching staff decided Cuvelier could fill the breach having been impressed by the 23-year-old’s professionalism behind the scenes.

Cuvelier impressed as a second-half substitute as Sheffield United recorded a vital win 
©2016 Sport Image all rights reservedCuvelier impressed as a second-half substitute as Sheffield United recorded a vital win 
©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved
Cuvelier impressed as a second-half substitute as Sheffield United recorded a vital win ©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved
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“If you watch how Flo conducts himself every single day on the training ground, to cope with the adversity he’s had, well, it’s fantastic to see someone who has a genuine desire to try and be the very best he can be,” Adkins said. “Flo had a good reputation before we came in.

“His attitude has been exemplary, he’s an excellent athlete who is very talented on the ball. We brought him on at a key moment in the game and, for me, it’s all about that trust.”

Cuvelier, who joined United from Stoke City, is expected to feature again at Rochdale on Saturday.

“It was great to see Flo come back,” Adkins said. “He’s had a sustained period of training now but because we’ve got a very big squad, it’s been difficult to get him in.

Florent Cuvelier has worked hard in training since recovering from injury 
©2016 Sport Image all rights reservedFlorent Cuvelier has worked hard in training since recovering from injury 
©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved
Florent Cuvelier has worked hard in training since recovering from injury ©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved
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“But it was good to see him out there because he’s a very talented footballer. I’ve alluded to how many players we have. If we hadn’t, then he might have got a chance earlier. I thought he did really well.”