'We've just been incredibly unlucky' - Sheffield United fans' verdict on winless start to Premier League season after Leeds United loss

Three games into the new Premier League campaign and Sheffield United’s exploits of last season – when they were dubbed the ‘surprise package’ by finishing ninth on their return to top flight football after a 12-year absence – seems nothing but a distant memory.

Throw in United manager Chris Wilder being without the services of influential defender Jack O’Connell for much, if not all, of 2020/21 and the lack of a potent goal threat and you can understand why some pundits are talking about the so-called ‘second season syndrome’ afflicting the Blades.

However, should United fans be concerned?

There’s been significant mitigating factors in all three league defeats so far, from a highly debatable red card in the 1-0 defeat at Aston Villa seven days ago to coming up against a goalkeeper on top of his game for Leeds United yesterday – and don’t forget Wilder’s side rallied well in the second half of the 2-0 loss against Wolverhampton Wanderers on the opening day of the season.

So, with this in mind, let’s take a look at what some Unitedites on Facebook have made of their side’s start to the season.

Paul Jackson said he isn’t worried.

He said: “Let’s get it into perspective - six minutes of madness against Wolves but well in the game, VERY debatable sending off after 12 minutes against Villa - good penalty saved, lost in 88th to Leeds on a so-called high - fine lines in this league. Not for the faint-hearted and was ever being a Blade easy? Still in it for crying out loud!!”

His comments were echoed by Jamie Wroe, who says he’s ‘not at all concerned’.

“Fully trust Wilder. This is a situation we've been in twice before in recent years, and both those times we ended up promoted,” he said. “We need a couple of players, definitely a forward, but no cause for great concern.”

And Shaun Hickey said: “If we finished our chances we would be ok, but we’re only three games in.”

Paul Williamson is another Blades fan confident it’s just a blip. He said: “I'd be concerned if we were outplayed or outfought but we've just been incredibly unlucky.”

But there is concern among some.

David Baines wrote: “Why is everyone saying we need (Rhian) Brewster? What’s he done. We need a Premier league striker that can score at this level.

"For me he ain’t the answer. I trust Wilder, though, but we’re in for a relegation scrap this year. I’m not looking through rose tinted glasses like some fans, it’s harsh reality!”

Paul Newton is equally concerned, saying: “It depends what we look like by the end of the window, but given the soundbites from Wilder I’m not too optimistic that anyone else is coming in. Can see us undoing four years of great work if we don’t act this week.”

But Stephen Moseley probably sums it up best, saying: “Holding my nerve, just. I trust CW and early days but am not enjoying the ride so far . . .”

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