Sheffield United: Everything Yusuf Giansiracusa, Stephen Bettis and Paul Heckingbottom said as Slavisa Jokanovic is replaced as boss

Sheffield United have confirmed Paul Heckingbottom as their new manager after parting company with Slavisa Jokanovic this morning.
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Heckingbottom took charge of United when Chris Wilder left last season before moving back into a role with the under 23s.

However, in the wake of Jokanovic’s departure, the former Leeds United and Hibs boss has been called upon again, this time on a permanent basis, agreeing a contract through to the end of the 2025/26 season.

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Sheffield United have parted company with manager Slavisa Jokanovic and replaced him with Paul Heckingbottom.  Jason Cairnduff/PA Wire.Sheffield United have parted company with manager Slavisa Jokanovic and replaced him with Paul Heckingbottom.  Jason Cairnduff/PA Wire.
Sheffield United have parted company with manager Slavisa Jokanovic and replaced him with Paul Heckingbottom. Jason Cairnduff/PA Wire.

In a statement released on Thursday afternoon, Chairman Yusuf Giansiracusa said: “We look forward to embarking on a new era in Blades football with Paul at the helm. Paul possesses the personal leadership qualities and technical football skills the board feels are essential to successfully implement the board’s strategic directives. He shares our values and interest in player development while also possessing the ambition and determination to get the most out of our current squad. We are convinced that Paul will play a leading role in improving all aspects of football operations.”

Here’s what was said by Yusuf Giansiracusa, Stephen Bettis and Paul Heckingbottom in today’s press conference after a dramatic day at Bramall Lane.

Sheffield United new manager Press Conference LIVE

Breaking down Hecky’s job

What the window will be line for Blades

United to draw on Heckingbottom’s expertise

Bettis looking at big picture

The inside story of Slav’s departure

from the Blades press conference - plenty to recap and digest there

PH on the system he’ll play

We played variations of it last season and we’ll see the same, dependent on the game. We had changes within the game and went to another formation, I want to try and build on that and make sure we get the most out of that squad. So every player feels like they can earn a place in the team and stay in if the team is winning.

PH on getting his latest coach in

With Jack and Macca coming in, it’s happened so quick so it’s tough to get good people over the line. I’m delighted they have said yes, I’m comfortable with how we are and we’re looking to get the right person in. I’m clear in how I want this to work, to get a good coaching team and a hungry one. To cover all bases.

Femi’s back now, he’s ineligible to play until January but we’ve tried to arrange a few friendlies to get him up to speed.