What Oli McBurnie said about "responsibilities" of being a footballer after Sheffield United striker caused controversy at Swansea v Cardiff derby

Oli McBurnie, the Sheffield United striker, admits he has sometimes found it difficult to remember his responsibilities as a Premier League footballer following his club-record move to Bramall Lane in the summer.
Oli McBurnie of Sheffield Utd: Simon Bellis/SportimageOli McBurnie of Sheffield Utd: Simon Bellis/Sportimage
Oli McBurnie of Sheffield Utd: Simon Bellis/Sportimage

McBurnie was United's most expensive player at the time of his £17m move to United in the summer, a fee which will rise to £20m this summer with United's Premier League status confirmed.

That tag was taken on by Sander Berge later in the season, when he moved from Genk for £22m, but McBurnie has enjoyed a decent first campaign as a Blade so far.

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Along with his exploits on the field, though, McBurnie has attracted some controversy off it - including when he was pictured in the Swansea end making 'offensive gestures' at Cardiff fans at the south Wales derby.

And McBurnie, who was born in Leeds, revealed on a 'Behind the Blades' special shot by United's media team: "I get seen a lot more than other people, because of the situations I get myself into.

"But people have to remember I'm a 23-year-old lad, living back at home for the first time since I was 17.

"I'm around my friends again so it's hard sometimes, remembering the responsibilities you have.

"But it's all worth it at the end of the day.

"You've got to remember you're in the public eye a lot, and everything you're seen doing has an effect on other people. And your image as well."

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