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 …
9. Harry Maguire – England
Another former Blade of some repute going to the World Cup, Maguire keeps a keen eye on United’s results and has frequently been back to Bramall Lane since becoming a Man United superstar Photo: Chris Brunskill
10. Alan Knill – Wales
Knill was part of Page’s backroom team for their World Cup qualification period and helped the red men qualify for their first WC since 1958 Photo: Marc Atkins
11. Kalvin Phillips – England
A player who was heavily admired by United following their promotion to the top flight, before he committed his future to his boyhood club. He later became an England star and since moved to Manchester City, so probably doesn’t regret how things panned out Photo: MOLLY DARLINGTON
12. Jonathan David – Canada
A player linked with the Blades during their time in the Premier League but instead he went to Lille, helping them win the league title in 2020/21 Photo: GABRIEL BOUYS