Alan Biggs at Large: Why money isn't everything for Sheffield United star John Fleck

Take an exchange between John Fleck and this column on his new Blades deal.

First, it’s a fair bet that any number of outstanding performers at Bramall Lane could potentially command higher wages elsewhere.

Which is not to undermine the considerable lengths to which Prince Abdullah’s board are going to ensure Chris Wilder’s side stays intact and is strengthened further. Applause all round for that.

But there is more to it in the attitudes that have brought this group so far in their careers - and Fleck, so intrinsic to European ambitions he wasn’t risked in the squad that squeezed into the FA Cup quarter finals at Reading, exemplifies it.

By popular perception, players will always chase the money and there is some truth in that, people in all walks of life and not just football.

But what price do you put on being in the form of your life with a club on a roll to unimagined heights?

Fleck matter-of-factly answered that when we spoke after the 28-year-old midfielder penned a new deal to the summer of 2023.

This contract at the peak of his career will ordinarily have required serious consideration and not least that, in my opinion, he’s been THE most outstanding performer among so many at his club this season.

Instead, he called it “pretty simple”, adding “sometimes these things take a bit of time but it was just a matter of when.”

Now to the nitty gritty with Fleck. Do players put playing ahead of financial security?

“You always want to play, that’s the biggest thing,” said John. “Anything else comes second.”

So is playing more important than the wage?

“Of course, yes. Since I started my career as a young boy, all I’ve wanted to do is play football and it’s still the same now.”

Naturally, the former Rangers and Coventry midfielder is being well rewarded at the Lane and so he should be.

United are constantly having to adjust their wage ceiling with their status.

But, going back to the top, it is not finance that has fuelled this team or the hunger of those within it.

That simple joy of playing and achieving can still count for more.

Which is refreshing to hear.

It is also testament to Wilder’s man-management in treating players firmly but fairly.

The key is that he goes in to bat for them when they deserve rewarding; they don’t have to come knocking.

I’d venture that approach has indirectly saved United a lot of money as well.

And speaking of which, it’s worth recalling that one of his first signings was to pick up Fleck - on a free transfer.