In what has been a miserable campaign for Sheffield United at least they have the future to look forward to with the likes of Andre Brooks, Oli Arblaster and Will Osula.
Arbaster, the 20-year-old, was handed his full Premier League debut against Bournemouth after impressing in his sub appearance against Arsenal. It was a big statement made from Chris Wilder who lived up to the promise he made, after last Monday’s defeat, of playing more of the youngsters.
The Sheffield United academy product was taking the place of Vinicius Souza and it’s fair to say the boyhood Blade did not look out of place in a Premier League midfield.
Arblaster looked tidy on the ball, full of composure, and he was diligent in his defensive work too. He finished the game being United’s most accurate passer with 81% passing accuracy.
It was an impressive Premier League debut and he almost made it even better in the 64th minute as he dribbled his way through the Bournemouth defence and unleashed a shot towards the bottom far corner, only to see the goalkeeper tip it past the post.
Wilder clearly has faith in the youngster and after the game, Arblaster was asked about the gaffer backing him.
“He’s backed me all the way in training, helping me out. He just said to play how I train and how I did Monday. I tried playing with freedom. It’s obviously a big boost when the manager’s backing you and you want to repay him and repay the fans. It’s a big confidence boost for sure,” he told BBC Radio Sheffield.
He added: “It’s been a mad week for me, coming on against Arsenal for my first Premier League game and then getting told I was starting today. Just being out there and hearing the fans chanting my name is what I’ve dreamt about.”
