'The Rock' backs Sheffield United to return fitter, stronger and sharper than ever

The centre-half certainly cut an imposing figure as, standing just over six feet tall, he cast an emotionless gaze across the sundrenched pitches of Shirecliffe where his team mates were busy preparing for next month’s return to action.

Jack O’Connell packs a punch and relishes a physical challenge. But, as other members of Chris Wilder’s squad frequently admit, when the boots start flying you cross Egan at your peril. Even during the kickabouts they enjoy between themselves at the end of every session.

In a sense, the 27-year-old is Wilder’s perfect player. Brave, selfless and happy to let others receive acclaim and recognition, Egan does most of his best work in the shadows. Or, as the manager likes to put it, “away from the lights”. Which is why, after explaining how his team mates embrace the less glamorous side of the game, the Republic of Ireland international believes they have an advantage over some of their rivals in the race for European football.

“The lads here, all of them, is ready to put it all in during the week when there’s no attention on them,” Egan said. “I think that’s why, in my opinion, we’re the fittest group in the division. That’s something we’ve always prided ourselves on and it’s a credit to the rest of the boys because you don’t become that unless you’re willing to put the graft in when nobody is really watching.”

Although conditioning is key, choreography has also helped United construct one of the Premier League’s most effective defences. Only runaway leaders Liverpool had conceded fewer goals than Wilder’s side when competition was suspended in March because of the Covid-19 pandemic - a remarkable feat when you consider not only the quality of attacking talent across the division but also the fact United were only promoted last season. Figures revealing Wilder’s men have conceded less than a goal per game since the beginning of December do not happen by accident.

“We’ve got to put it all in because of the people we’re up against,” Egan said. “It’s not just the lads at the back either, it’s everyone. We try and go forward together and when we’ve got to dig in, we do that together too.

“Concentration and knowing what you’re supposed to be doing is vital. But to actually put it into practice, that means you’ve got to be fit as well.”

Seventh in the table, United will move to within two points of the Champions League places with only nine matches remaining if they beat Aston Villa on June 17. Two days later, the first full round of fixtures will begin as the PL attempts to squeeze 92 games into a seven week window.

“We’ve worked hard to put ourselves in this position,” Egan said. “We’ll be ready (to return), don’t worry about that, because we’ll give everything to try and see it through.”

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