A winter World Cup is a novelty for everyone and it’s fair to say that its scheduling, slap bang in the middle of the English season, may have dampened enthusiasm about it in some quarters.
It’s come at a good time for Sheffield United, who will use the break to coax many of their walking wounded back to fitness, but four weekends without any club football is never anything to cheer about – especially with United second in the league.
There are a number of United connection and interests in Qatar, beyond the obvious – including failed transfers, rumoured targets and former players, plus a manager who turned down the Blades and criticised them for good measure.
We compiled some of the best and most obscure – and Qatar 2022 may have more of a United feel than many first suspected …
5. Chris Senior - Wales
The Blades backroom man has travelled to Qatar as part of the Wales party, having previously served as masseuse at Euro 2016 - when he went viral for breakdancing during the celebrations after Wales beat Belgium to book a semi-final slot! Photo: Simon Bellis
6. Callum Wilson – England
Another member of Southgate’s squad this summer, Wilson was a target for the Blades after Bournemouth’s relegation but his wage demands proved out of United’s reach Photo: Steve Bardens
7. Conor Coady – England
The Everton man had a loan spell at the Blades earlier in his career and was fancied for a return under Chris Wilder, who couldn’t prise him away from Wolves Photo: Christopher Lee
8. Cameron Carter-Vickers – USA
The defender had a loan spell at United from Spurs and is on the way to Qatar as part of the USA contingent Photo: Harry Murphy