Matt Doherty made his Sheffield United debut in the Blades’ 2-0 win over Rotherham United

Sheffield United’s latest summer reinforcement, Matt Doherty, made his debut in this afternoon’s pre-season friendly, coming off the bench to play the final stages in the Blades’ 2-0 victory against Rotherham United.

Doherty, who committed his future to Bramall Lane on Monday, did not feature in United’s behind-closed-doors win against Huddersfield Town at Shirecliffe on Tuesday afternoon.

It was then revealed by Chris Wilder that, despite missing out, the experienced defender had been put through his paces earlier in the day and confirmed that he would make his Sheffield United debut at Rotherham’s New York Stadium this afternoon.

Doherty came on in the 73rd minute and helped Wilder’s side see out the 2-0 victory, thanks to goals from Tahith Chong and Callum O’Hare, and maintain their unbeaten run so far this pre-season.

The Wolverhampton Wanderers legend also showed glimpses of his attacking qualities, having linked up well with Romelle Donovan and displayed his experience with a calm, composed nature on the ball.

The right-back’s first outing was highly anticipated by Blades fans around the New York Stadium ahead of kick-off. One supporter commented: “Matt Doherty, I think, is a really shrewd and sensible signing in the way that Sheffield United have to play it this season.

“This squad's quite a young squad; there's not much experience in there, and I know Wilder has talked about it himself.”

Another Blade added: “Experience is just what we need. I'm not sure if he'll play 46 games a season, but you know what, he's tough, he's experienced and he'll do what I believe [Patrick] Bamford did last season, bring the group together with a bit of experience… I think it's a great acquisition.”

Doherty himself explained how he wishes to ‘help’ the group with his experience, telling United’s YouTube channel: “I’m one of the older players now, obviously, maybe even the oldest!

“What I can bring is a lot of experience and a lot of help for the younger players, especially in positions that I’ve played in.”

However, Doherty is keen to get minutes in S2, not just mentor the younger lads. He added: “I can obviously compete against them, but if it’s their day, then I can help them get through a game or certain situations. So yes, I’m here to compete and I’m here to play, but I’m also here to help.”