“I’ve got big problems now”, those were the words of Chris Wilder in his post-match interview with BBC Radio Sheffield, in reference to team selection, after Sheffield United comfortably advanced to the next round of the Carabao Cup by beating Wrexham 4-2.
Harry Souttar wasn’t just given his debut for the Blades on Tuesday evening, he was also given the captains armband and he certainly impressed. And if it wasn’t for the unbelievable performance of Sydie Peck he probably would’ve been awarded the Man of The Match.
Souttar was very good at the back in all phases of play. He completed 87 out of 100 passes – this included five of 11 long balls. He also won 11 out of 14 aerial duels, being a defensive shield while also causing havoc in the opposition box, highlighted by his seven clearances and one block to go with his offensive contribution: one shot on target, which led to the fourth goal, and another narrowly off target.
Sydie Peck completely dominated the midfield for Sheffield United against Wrexham
That being said, what a fantastic performance by Peck in the heart of midfield. There’s been talk by the fans “Peck should be loaned out for development”, but on the basis of Tuesday evening and pre-season he should be kept in the matchday squad. His game had everything: neat and basic play when needed, vision and intricate moments, aggression and physicality. But what was more impressive was his decision making and IQ of the game – he slowed the tempo when needed to, he quickened play when necessary, his choice of passing was spot on.
The 19-year-old ended the game with 94% passing accuracy, three key passes, two big chances created, a 100% long ball success, four out of seven crosses completed, and an assist to his name. He wasn’t afraid to get his hands dirty winning 11 of 17 total duels to add to his defensive contribution of four tackles and two interceptions.
Peck has certainly given Chris Wilder a decision to make off the back of his exceptional performances against albeit League One opposition, but he was up against a very experienced Wrexham team and he looked the best and most composed player on the pitch by a mile.
Chris Wilder on having a selection headache for the weekend
Wilder explained in his interview with BBC Radio Sheffield: “We’re after balance and depth and competition. We need that squad. You look at Burnley’s team [on Monday evening] and the bench: that’s going to be key for a lot of teams and lots of strength in depth. I need big problems and I have a big problem now because Souttar has been brilliant but Anel was brilliant on Friday night. Those are the problems I want and if [Cooper and Rak-Sakyi] come in they certainly add to the group.”
Wilder did provide an update about Femi Seriki’s condition after being forced off in the first half. He described the injury as a “groin tweak” and stated it shouldn’t be too bad.
Aye, Peck and Souttar were awesome and a good all round performance by the Blades. Not a duff player among them although it has to be said Coulibaly was knocked off the ball a bit too easily sometimes and a mistake of his led to the corner for their first goal. Did ok but needs more confidence and awareness of danger.