The truth, not the myths, behind Sheffield United's Premier League achievements

Then, when they showed no sign of faltering during the build-up to Christmas, complacency among opponents began before offered as a reason to explain why, after only being promoted from the Championship last season, Sheffield United still found themselves in the hunt for European football.

John Fleck, however, believes the narrative surrounding Chris Wilder’s side ignores the most important point: The talent, following as series of well thought out forays into the transfer market, now at the manager’s disposal.

“Since we started out, I don’t think anyone would have believed we’d be where we are now,” the midfielder said, surveying the state of play towards the top of the Premier League table following the latest round of fixtures. “Okay, you need a little bit of luck sometimes to help you get through the sticky patches. But basically it’s down to hard work, the right attitude. We’re here on merit.”

Fleck, aged 28, has made 25 appearances for United this term and signed a new long-term contract before Saturday’s draw with Brighton and Hove Albion. That result saw Wilder’s squad begin its preparations for March 7th’s game against Norwich City in seventh, although Wolverhampton Wanderers could climb above them if they beat Tottenham Hotspur this weekend.

United were in League One when Fleck became one of Wilder’s first signings following the former Northampton Town chief’s appointment in 2016. Sander Berge became United’s record purchase when he completed a £22m move from Genk last month, beating the £20m they committed to paying Swansea City for Oli McBurnie over the summer.

“It’s been a group effort the whole time,” he said. “Obviously some players have left, new ones have come in, but it’s all about the squad.

“This is the best league in the world so of course it’s the most enjoyable (season) so far.

“It’s where we all wanted to be and we’re doing well so there’s no resting up, we’ll just keep on working hard.”