'Trusted him in big moments' - Why Slavisa Jokanovic's appointment could be good news for one Sheffield United player in particular

Jokanovic and Ollie Norwood have history, having worked together at Fulham before going their separate ways, and there is a great deal of mutual respect amongst the pair.

Jokanovic attempted to sign Norwood on a permanent basis before he ended up at Bramall Lane, while the former Northern Ireland international regards the Serb as one of the best managers he has worked under throughout his professional career.

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“Oliver Norwood is an important player for myself and my team, it’s simple because I use him many games,” Jokanovic said of the midfielder at the time.

“He’s shown a high level of professionalism and he’s a very good player.”

An integral member of the United side that won promotion to the Premier League, and then took it by storm to finish ninth, Norwood struggled to replicate that form last season as the Blades were relegated.

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But he was far from the only one to do so – only Aaron Ramsdale and David McGoldrick really excelled – and considering he will start next season looking for his fourth promotion from the Championship in as many attempts, the clamour in some quarters to move him on appears incredibly short-sighted.

Especially considering United’s midfield options are expected to be limited anyway following the expected departures of John Lundstram and Sander Berge.

Under Jokanovic, Fulham were referred to as ‘the Barcelona of the Championship’ – memorably winning 5-4 at Bramall Lane on their way to promotion - and Norwood was a key cog in the wheel.

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“Jokanovic rotated him through all three of the midfield positions, but usually used him to shore up games by bringing him on for Stefan Johansen,” said Jack Collins of the Fulhamish podcast.

“He trusted him in the big moments and wanted us to sign him in the summer before he went to United. I think he would have been a big part of any future plans, as Kevin McDonald slowed down.”

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