Sheffield United could be forced to revise their plans for on-loan goalkeeper due to injury

The youngster damaged a thigh on his debut for the Scottish Premiership club, only 48 hours after agreeing to spend the next six months at Rugby Park.

United had hoped that joining Alex Dyer’s side would help equip the 23-year-old with the experience required to eventually challenge for a first team place in South Yorkshire, as Chris Wilder looks to overhaul his goalkeeping department. But after learning Eastwood will be out of action for around 12 weeks, Dyer has now been forced to draft in a replacement; Heart of Midlothian’s Colin Doyle.

The former Republic of Ireland international’s presence means Eastwood could struggle to regain his place in Kilmarnock’s starting eleven when United’s medical department give him the all-clear.

“After what has happened to Jake in terms of his unfortunate injury, I felt it was important to bring in an experienced goalkeeper who has knowledge of the league,” Dyer, who expects Doyle to challenge Danny Rogers, said. “Colin has experience of playing in big games and we welcome him to the club.”

“I’m really pleased to join Kilmarnock and I’m excited by the opportunity to play football again,” Doyle responded, in a clear indication he does not expect to sit on the bench. “Hopefully I can show what I can do whenever I’m given an opportunity in the team.”

Eastwood, who graduated from United’s youth programme in 2016, has made two senior appearances for United since turning professional - with both of those coming in the EFL Cup. Although Wilder is known to rate him highly, Wes Foderingham’s arrival at Bramall Lane from Rangers means United will have no shortage of back-up for either Aaron Ramsdale or Dean Henderson - two of Wilder’s leading transfer targets - next term. Michael Verrips, a former Holland youth international, and Simon Moore are also on United’s books although the latter could depart in order to secure first team football.

Eastwood has also completed placements with Chesterfield, Scunthorpe, Gainsborough Trinity, Sheffield FC and Mickleover Sports.

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