Speculation over the Senegalese starboy’s future has only intensified in recent days amid reports of a move to Marseille, but United’s key man reported for duty at Chesterfield as Paul Heckingbottom’s men kicked off their pre-season campaign with victory over their local rivals.
United fielded two different XIs in either half ahead of their warm-weather training camp in Portugal - where they will experience much better weather than North Derbyshire, where rainstorms punctuated the action as 4,500 Blades fans made the short trip to watch their side.
Here’s how we rated every United player against Chesterfield...
5. Chris Francis 5
Lining up on the left of United’s back three, the trialist from Bournemouth understandably looked eager to impress and wasted possession early on with a long punt forward when a more measured approach looked a better option. Otherwise was solid rather than spectacular Photo: Jan Kruger/Getty Images
6. Max Lowe 6
Had the first opportunity to really stretch his legs down the left flank just before the half-hour mark after Fleck’s pass and a lovely low ball found Osula, but Tyrer excelled to keep the effort out | Sportimage
7. Ollie Norwood 6
Almost scored an unfortunate own goal as he got a touch on a dangerous cross after United fell asleep a little from a Chesterfield corner, but it flashed across the face of Foderingham’s goal and to safety. Made a delicious Olliewood pass to the left flank look so effortless and looked comfortable on the ball as ever | Sportimage
8. John Fleck 5
Showed some early ring-rust with a poor touch that allowed the home side to counter-attack United quickly, but then from the resulting corner carried the ball forward before feeding Osula for an early sight of goal. Was involved in two chances for Osula that should have seen United ahead | Sportimage