Sheffield United key man looking to repay Bramall Lane faith after sharing more reasons for Blades optimism
Tahith Chong scored his first goal in Sheffield United colours as the Blades returned to winning ways against Lincoln City
Tahith Chong is determined to repay Chris Wilder's faith after getting on the scoresheet for the first time in Sheffield United colours to help the Blades to a much-needed 3-0 win over Lincoln City on Saturday. The 26-year-old doubled United’s lead with a good strike from a tight angle.
Patrick Bamford netted either side of that goal to give United some welcome respite from their recent poor form, and quieten a bit of the noise surrounding the club so far this season.
Chong was perhaps a surprise starter in many eyes, with boss Wilder later revealing that Donovan had been struggling with a slight illess, but justified the call with a key moment as he looks to make up for lost time after a slow start to his Blades career.
“I really want to repay the trust that the staff and the gaffer have been putting in to me,” Chong admitted. “It's been difficult here and there with injuries as well, but hopefully it's the start of just being injury-free and being able to help the team.
“It's not only about me, it's about helping the team in any way you can and trying to win a football game. Today it might have been me, but next week it might be Romelle.
“All the 25 players we have are going to be important this season. Today I was lucky enough to score, but then next week it'll be someone else and I think that's important for us, that we're going to need the whole group.”
The return of several injured players has also given the squad a lift, with Harrison Burrows among those back in contention and Femi Seriki still working towards a return.
Ryan One made a welcome return to the pitch against his former club on Saturday and the hope is that Seriki could be back in contention for this week’s long trips to Portsmouth and Bristol City.
And that increased competition for places, Chong believes, can only help United as they look to build on the Lincoln victory. “Everyone wants to play,” he said. “But also everyone wants to help. And that's going to be important moving forward.”