'Can't be held responsible for defeat', 'Desperate for a goal' - Player ratings from Sheffield United's defeat at West Bromwich Albion

United created a hatful of chances, but once again couldn’t put the ball in the net as Conor Gallagher’s first-half strike proved decisive in this battle of the Premier League strugglers.

Here’s how we rated United’s players…

Aaron Ramsdale 7

Seemed to be unsighted as the ball flew through a crowded penalty area for West Brom's opening goal, after a corner was only half-cleared as far as Gallagher. Made a couple of other smart saves to keep United in the game and once again cannot be held responsible for the result

George Baldock 6

Saw a side-footed effort cleared off the line as United built pressure early on, after Burke intelligently cut back for him. Later cleared an effort from the hosts off the line at the other end but missed a golden chance after good play from Burke to set him up

Chris Basham 6

Was alert to get a toe on the ball after Ramsdale came to claim a corner but couldn't hold on to it, and tidied up well as Robinson looked to race clear. Didn't seem to get forward as often as United would like early on but strode out of defence more as United chased the game

John Egan 7

Showed good defensive instincts to get his body in the way of a number of crosses in the first half. Felt he was harshly booked after a tackle with his Ireland teammate Robinson, and had a painful-looking clash of heads with Sam Johnstone as the two jumped for a corner

Kean Bryan 6

Made his Premier League debut for the Blades down the left and was given a tough introduction, being caught out by a good ball over the top towards Grant. A peach of a cross was almost converted by Oli Burke before he was taken off and United changed shape

Max Lowe 6

The youngster showed some encouraging signs, not least a peach of a cross that almost picked out Rhian Brewster in the middle, but is clearly still learning his trade at Premier League level and isn't at Enda Stevens' level quite yet

Ollie Norwood 5

Saw yellow early in the game after catching Gallagher. Replaced in the second half by Rhian Brewster.

Sander Berge 6

Didn't get enough on his clearance in the build-up to WBA's opener and later caught Karlan Grant in a tackle, ensuring the striker received lengthy treatment. Took his time to get into the game but United improved when he did, driving at the WBA defence

John Fleck 6

Had a good opening inside the first four minutes when a cross was flicked into his path, but he couldn't get it on target. Saw an opening early in the second half blocked by his own man

Oli McBurnie 7

Set up an early chance for his strike partner but Oli Burke couldn't take advantage. Forced a good save from Johnstone after a clever free-kick routine and linked play well. Just desperate for that elusive goal

Oli Burke 7.5

Could have enjoyed a dream return to The Hawthorns inside the first 30 seconds but he couldn't keep his balance when presented with a golden chance. Forced a stunning save from Johnstone with a header from Bryan's cross and set up two golden chances for George Baldock

Subs

Rhian Brewster 6

Came on for Ollie Norwood and directed a header goalward from Baldock's cross, but saw it deflected behind. Forced a late save from Sam Johnstone from outside the box

John Lundstram 7

Replaced Kean Bryan as United changed shape to a back four and whipped in a peach of a cross soon after, which Oli Burke was inches away from connecting with. Gave United more energy in midfield when he came on

Lys Mousset 6

Made his first appearance of the season after recovering from injury, replacing Oli Burke, and set up a good opening for his strike partner McBurnie, but Johnstone saved. Somehow missed an injury-time chance from about three yards out after Brewster’s shot was blocked

Thank you for reading this article, one of dozens we publish every single day to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative coverage of YOUR club. This depth of Blades coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to from the football team at The Star, please consider taking out a subscription to our new discounted sports-only package. You'll find all the details HERE. Your support is much appreciated. Chris Holt, Football Editor