Sheffield United: Boss teases fans with a glimpse into the future at Bramall Lane, as young strike duo progress

Denmark’s decision to recognise Will Osula could see the Sheffield United youngster become the subject of an international tug-of-war with England, it has been claimed.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Osula, aged 18, has been informed the Scandinavians plan to integrate him into their youth programme following a series of impressive displays for Bramall Lane’s development squad.

Read More
Sheffield United: Response to Oli McBurnie's miss tells you all you need to know...

United manager Paul Heckingbottom, who coached the under-23’s team before being appointed as Slavisa Jokanovic’s successor in November, worked extensively with Osula during his spell with the academy.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Suggesting that officials at the FA could also now begin monitoring the forward’s progress, Heckingbottom said: “Maybe getting the call alerts the English FA as well, you never know but it could happen.”

Speaking ahead of United’s Championship fixture against Swansea City tomorrow, Heckingbottom drew comparisons between Osula and fellow teenager Daniel Jebbison. After being recalled from a spell on loan with Burton Albion, Jebbison has been capped by England at youth level but is also being monitored by Canada - the country of his birth.

“We’re not putting any pressure on Daniel and it’s a similar message with Will,”continued Heckingbottom, who named Osula in his squad for last month’s FA Cup tie against Wolverhampton Wanderers. “Will has had such a frustrating three years with various growth related issues. He’s missed so much football but we love him and think he’s a fantastic talent.

Paul Heckingbottom, the Sheffield United manager: Simon Bellis/SportimagePaul Heckingbottom, the Sheffield United manager: Simon Bellis/Sportimage
Paul Heckingbottom, the Sheffield United manager: Simon Bellis/Sportimage

“They’re both strikers and they both have so much potential and ability to learn. He’s not developed at the same rate as Daniel, because we’ve not been able to get him out there on the grass. But that’s changing now, which is great.”