Chris Wilder couldn't enjoy a fairytale homecoming to Sheffield United as his side lost 2-0 at home to Liverpool tonight, but there was plenty of optimism for the future in their display. Goals from Virgil Van Dijk and Dominik Szoboszlai, with United looking for a foul on both occasions, sealed victory for the Reds.
But the Blades had their chances to go ahead much earlier, with James McAtee and Cameron Archer denied, with a committed display suggesting that they are not dead and buried just yet in the battle for survival ahead of this weekend's home clash with Brentford. Here's how our man rated the Blades' players against the Reds...
5. Auston Trusty 7
Recovered from a wild challenge from Endo on the touchline right in front of Wilder, which left the manager raging at the linesman on that side, to put in another commanding display. Had the remarkably tough task of marking Mo Salah but he kept the Egyptian quiet for large parts of the game from left back as United switched shape. Replaced late on by Lowe on his return from injury
6. Gus Hamer 6
Played on the right of United's three-man midfield and was industrious as ever, throwing himself in the path of the ball to block an early shot. But couldn't match that industry with much invention and looked to be hobbling towards the end of the game
7. Vini Souza 7
Handed a reprieve by Wilder after being benched at Burnley and put himself about a lot more in this game, flying into tackles early on and then playing the simple pass and when he won it back. Had the chance to cement his place in midfield with Norwood benched and took it, before being replaced by Norwood late on
8. Andre Brooks 7.5
Something of a surprise starter but showed little fear against such illustrious opposition, denying Konate with a great challenge on his own byline before displaying good maturity, game awareness and bottle to keep the ball in a tight spot before turning and running at the Liverpool midfield. Can be very proud of his efforts against a star-studded side before being replaced for Fleck