Past injury experience helps Sheffield United ahead of FA Cup clash at Wrexham

After learning his employers had been placed under a transfer embargo because of an outstanding debt, Paul Heckingbottom was dismayed to learn that wing-backs George Baldock and Enda Stevens were set for extended periods on the treatment table earlier this month.

Second in the table and 13 points clear of third placed Watford, the duo’s absence could force Jayden Bogle and Max Lowe to start Sunday’s FA Cup tie at Wrexham when ordinarily they might have been rested.

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But after surviving a full blown selection crisis earlier this term, when nearly half his squad was either ruled-out of action or playing whilst carrying knocks, Heckingbottom believes United’s experiences then will help them cope now.

“It’s not as if it’s anything new,” he said. “We’ve got plenty of experience dealing with this kind of thing, unfortunately. We’ll get through it. Obviously we’d rather everyone was available. But they’re not, so we just get on with it, as always.”

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After expressing concerns that conditions at United’s training complex risked exacerbating their fitness problems, Heckingbottom has already taken the step of changing how his players prepare for matches. This contrasts with the approach he adopted earlier this term, when schedules remained the same despite the growing number of casualties. A new formation, first trialled during the third round victory over Millwall, also lessens the demands being placed on some of those operating in so-called pivotal positions.

“You’re constantly learning,” Heckingbottom said. “Always trying to improve.”

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