Slavisa Jokanovic reiterates his attacking Sheffield United approach after "uncomfortable" Barnsley experience

Slavisa Jokanović has reiterated his desire to ensure Sheffield United remain a ruthless and attacking team, after admitting he was unhappy with how his side managed the final stages of Sunday’s South Yorkshire derby against Barnsley at Oakwell.

By Danny Hall

Published 25th Oct 2021, 17:00 BST

Watch more of our videos on Shots!
and live on Freeview channel 276

The Blades looked to be cruising when two second half goals from Lys Mousset, and a strike from Ben Osborn, saw them go 3-0 up. But struggling Barnsley, who had scored just three goals in nine games before kick-off against the Blades, hit back to net twice in the space of three minutes and set up a nervier finish than many of a red and white persuasion had expected at the home of their closest rivals in the Championship this season.

Jokanović replaced strikers Mousset and Iliman Ndiaye with Billy Sharp and David McGoldrick, before sending on defender Chris Basham in place of Oli McBurnie to shore up United’s back-line and see out the game with just a few minutes to go.

Blades' stance on Brewster loan amid links with Forest

“I am not the kind of coach who will try and close the game after scoring two or three goals,” Jokanović added.

“It's not the way I would choose to play and I find my team panicked and were uncomfortable. When they scored the second I had to take the decision to try and support them in this sort of situation.

“We need to be prudent, focused and concentrated. I am not happy with what I saw at the end of the game.

“I believe we must show more personality and quality and be more calm. Don't give Barnsley oxygen to come back and fight at the end of the game.

Slavisa Jokanovic, manager of Sheffield United, applauds the fans at Barnsley: Simon Bellis / Sportimage

Slavisa Jokanovic, manager of Sheffield United, applauds the fans at Barnsley: Simon Bellis / Sportimage

Why Currie's love affair with Blades continues after over half a century

“We need to improve, it's simple. If you always need to score three to win the game, it is hard work. I'm not satisfied and we need to find some sort of solution.”

Jokanović said he didn’t tell his players to sit back and defend their 3-0 lead.

“We found lots of spaces but didn't score all the chances we created,” he added.

“We scored three goals and that must be enough. We showed enough power but we missed personality and quality.”

While you're here, please consider taking out a subscription to our new discounted sports-only package. You'll find all the details HERE. Your support is much appreciated. Chris Holt, Football Editor

Slavisa Jokanovic Oakwell South Yorkshire Barnsley

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.