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 …
17. Adam Davies – Wales
United’s other current representative in Qatar after being confirmed as part of Page’s Wales squad. Davies recently made his United debut in Wes Foderingham’s absence and let no-one down, and can perhaps consider himself unfortunate to be dropped Photo: Morgan Harlow
18. Matty Cash – Poland
United lost out to Aston Villa for the signing of Cash from Nottingham Forest and the defender has gone from strength to strength, making his international debut for Poland after receiving a Polish passport last year Photo: Julian Finney
19. Ethan Ampadu - Wales
Another member of Page's Wales squad with Blades connections, Ampadu spent the season on loan at Bramall Lane from Chelsea but couldn't help prevent them sliding back into the Championship. He is currently on loan at Serie A club Spezia from Stamford Bridge Photo: Alex Pantling
20. Antonee Robinson – USA
United were confident of securing the services of the highly-rated young left-back after he left Wigan for a bargain fee, before being blown out of the water by an offer from Fulham. Robinson went to Craven Cottage instead and helped them to promotion last season Photo: Justin Setterfield