Sheffield United boss Paul Heckingbottom named manager of year at Star Football Awards

Heckingbottom, formerly of Barnsley and Leeds United, took over from Slavisa Jokanović back in November with the Blades floundering at the wrong end of the table.

But a superb run of form has seen United’s former caretaker boss win exactly half of his 26 games in charge since being appointed on a permanent basis, losing six and drawing seven – and transforming United from also-rans to genuine play-off contenders.

The moment skipper Sharp summed up what Blades are all about

Along the way United have beaten runaway leaders Fulham in their own backyard and should have dispatched second-placed Bournemouth too, but for some ridiculous refereeing decisions.

Heckingbottom’s connection with the club’s fanbase is reflected in his own terrace anthem, also referencing assistant manager Stuart McCall and sung to Status Quo’s ‘Rockin’ All Over the World’ – and he will be hoping to follow up this award with the play-off trophy in just under a month’s time.

The important role injured striker can still play in Blades' promotion push

Earlier, Billy Sharp was crowned as United’s player of the year at the Star Football Awards, with teammate Morgan Gibbs-White walking away with the young player of the year gong.

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