Sheffield United look to send highly-rated Sam Graham back out on loan

Amid fears the National League could suspend its season following a row about support during the Covid-19 pandemic, officials at Bramall Lane would prefer to place the youngster with a League Two club although offers from County’s rivals will also be considered.

The decision to terminate Graham’s agreement with Neal Ardley’s side - the 20-year-old has been scheduled to spend the rest of the campaign in Nottingham - was prompted by concerns about the amount of game-time he was being offered after recovering from an injury sustained just before Christmas.

"It was tough for Sam, it was difficult for him,” Ardley, the former AFC Wimbledon manager, admitted. “We were trying to get him back to his best but opportunities were a little bit limited and so Sheffield United took to decision to take him back.

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"We thank him for all his efforts and wish him all the best for the future – for the rest of this season and also for beyond.”

Graham, a graduate of the Steelphalt Academy youth programme, has previously represented Halifax Town and Australian club Central Coast Mariners, where he worked under former United midfielder Nick Montgomery.

Graham also made nine appearances for Oldham Athletic following a temporary transfer to Boundary Park at the beginning of the 2018/19 campaign. One of those came in the EFL Cup, when Athletic welcomed Derby County to the Northy-West. He also faced Barnsley in the EFL Trophy.

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