A controversial ‘team of the season’ so far from the league sponsors this week got Sheffield United fans talking, with the absences of key men Michael Cooper and Harry Souttar debated particularly vociferously. The Blades went into the current break joint top of the Championship table, with no side in the league registering more wins or winning more points.
But only midfielder Vini Souza made that particular cut from a Blades perspective as Norwich City dominated with three players despite sitting in the bottom half of the table, and a couple from United’s Yorkshire rivals Leeds United. Fortunately David Prutton, the former Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds man, has more of a grasp on matters in the second tier and has been impressed with a number of Blades so far this season. Here’s how the Sky Sports EFL pundit made up his team of the campaign so far... is that more like it, Blades?
9. LM: Borja Sainz (Norwich)
DP: He’s already eclipsed what he did last season in terms of goal contributions. He plays football in a way I could never have done, he looks like he’s enjoying it. Photo: George Wood/Getty Images
10. ST: Haji Wright (Coventry City)
DP: Ostensibly brought in to replace Viktor Gyökeres who has scored a hat-trick in the Champions League against Man City. More than fit to lead the line in a Champ side knocking on the door of the top half and potentially the top six. Photo: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
11. ST: Josh Maja (West Brom)
DP: Scoring goals for fun, although he’s had more minutes on the pitch so it’s not rocket science that he’ll have more chances. As a front two I would be quaking in my defensive boots. Photo: Nathan Stirk
12. Manager: Régis Le Bris (Sunderland)
DP: To take over a team in the manner he has, without wholesale surgery has been impressive. It’s a likeable side, a mix of youth and experience and he’s been a pleasure to deal with. | Getty Images