That has been the story of Sheffield United’s pre-season campaign so far, with victories over Casa Pia and Lincoln City – with an aggregate score of 6-0 after two 60-minute matches – raising hopes of a good campaign when the Championship gets underway for real for the Blades early next month.
Although Paul Heckingbottom, the United manager, has stressed these games are very much training exercises, there has been evidence of a few patterns of play that his coaching staff have been working on away in Portugal, with the likes of Rhian Brewster, Sander Berge, Ben Osborn and Will Osula all writing their names on the scoresheet so far.
United continue their pre-season campaign this weekend away at Scunthorpe United. But who has caught the eye so far for United? We took a look at nine players we believe have impressed in the two games to date …
5. Chris Basham
The veteran has responded well to the arrival of Anel Ahmedhodžić as cover and competition for his place, and against Lincoln his communication with the rest of his defence and young goalkeeper was obvious. Still as fit as ever too Photo: Sheffield United
6. Ollie Norwood
Such an important member of this United side, Norwood’s passing was as crisp as ever against Casa Pia and he wasn’t shy of putting his foot in when it was needed in either friendly, either. Picked up an assist for Osula’s first against Lincoln with a nice flighted ball Photo: Sheffield United
7. Will Osula
After seeing Daniel Jebbison score the winner against Casa Pia, Osula responded in excellent fashion with two goals against Lincoln – the first a nice, instinctive finish after Jebbison dummied and the second an impressive touch, driving run and finish across the goalkeeper. Looks a real player Photo: Sheffield United
8. John Egan
Has very rarely looked trouble in either of the two games and when he was against Lincoln, a composed backheel to a teammate snuffed out the danger in a heartbeat. Often doesn’t get the plaudits but such a vital cog in the United machine Photo: Sheffield United