Sheffield United: Why Paul Heckingbottom has no time for those who criticise his players

Despite finishing the latest round of Championship fixtures in second, ahead of their return to action on December 10th, United have often struggled to meet their usual high-standards over the past few weeks as injuries continue to affect Bramall Lane’s first team squad.

Although the win over leaders Burnley was a notable exception, Heckingbottom’s team have been forced to work hard for victories over the likes of Bristol City and Cardiff City - where George Baldock’s second-half goal briefly lifted them back in pole position.

Privately, Heckingbottom is encouraged by the fact United have been able to lay the foundations for a promotion challenge despite their on-going fitness issues. And after resisting calls to be more outspoken when his players have failed to be at their swashbuckling best, Heckingbottom told The Star it is important to remember that many of those on display of late have made themselves available for selection despite carrying knocks themselves.

“They’ve all played and they’ve all wanted to play,” he said, noting how the likes of Chris Basham, John Fleck, Enda (Stevens) and Ben Osborn were all pitched straight back into action following spells on the sidelines. “Usually, if someone has been out for a while, you’ll look to ease them back in. We’ve not been able to do that because we’ve had so many out. I appreciate there’s an expectation they would do that. But I always appreciate that, in those cases, they’re not always going to be at their absolute best individually.”

After outlining plans to cultivate a ‘No Excuses’ culture behind the scenes, it is no surprise that Heckingbottom has waited until the pause in the domestic schedule to highlight why he has been prepared to overlook some individual errors and mistakes. Twelve players, including Fleck, Tommy Doyle and McBurnie, were forced to miss the visit to south Wales. Others, including Baldock, volunteered for duty despite being diagnosed with complaints which might otherwise have ruled them out.

“Credit to them,” Heckingbottom said, “Because some of them have been carrying things and I think that’s important to remember.”