United fielded a fresh XI from Tuesday night’s reverse at Rotherham, with the likes of John Egan, Sander Berge and Anel Ahmedhodzic featuring, before a raft of substitutions again saw a number of youngsters get a chance to impress.
Goals from Sávio and Barcelona loanee Pablo Torre, in the dying moments of the game, sealed victory for the La Liga side, as a number of key United men got more valuable minutes in the legs ahead of this weekend’s trip to Derby County.
But how did they fare, before a raft of substitutions disrupted the flow somewhat? Here are our player ratings ...
5. Miguel Freckleton 6
Attracted the frustration of Egan when he met Slimane’s corner with his captain feeling he was better placed to attack it and get a header on goal. Showed good composure on the ball under pressure from Girona’s forward line | Sportimage
6. Max Lowe 5
Got forward down the left dangerously and came closest to breaking the deadlock when he rattled the crossbar with a well-struck shot from Slimane’s excellent pass. Had a good chance to pick out Seriki who had raced forward but his cross was low and cut out | Sheffield United
7. John Fleck n/a
Looked decent on the ball and was getting into his stride when he took a heavy whack on his right leg from Yangel Herrera. Despite trying to continue, eventually made way the wrong side of the 20th minute to give United a second midfield injury concern in less than 24 hours | Sheffield United
8. Anis Slimane 7
Introduced himself nicely with a nutmeg of his midfield marker and grew in stature from there, with some lovely passes. United’s most impressive performer, he could have had at least one assist and built on a good debut at Estoril with another promising display here. Looks a very good addition | Sheffield United