According to The Sheffield Star, goalkeeper Dean Henderson is still negotiating terms over another loan spell at Sheffield United.
The 22-year-old played all 46 of the Blades’ Championship games last season in a year which saw them finish second and gain automatic promotion back to the Premier League.
And the young Englishman impressed in his first season with the club as he was a part of the joint best defence in the league, conceding just 41 goals throughout the entire campaign and keeping 21 clean sheets in the process.
Henderson went back to his parent club Man United following the promotion success, but is now hopeful he will be allowed to return to Chris Wilder and his squad in time for their first fixture against Bournemouth.
However, if he is to go back to Bramall Lane Man United are reportedly insistent that he signs a new contract with them – a requirement which has delayed negotiations and meant the deal could not be done prior to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s squad’s trip to Singapore.
As a ‘keeper in his early 20s, it’s all about game time, confidence, and experience for Henderson – something he would have gained a great deal of when he played in the European Under-21 Championships this summer despite England’s disappointing display.
He now has the knowledge of what it’s like to play against elite-level operators, something which will stand him in good stead when it comes to playing in the Premier League.
In addition, it is imperative that Wilder gets Henderson in before the opening game because being able to replicate the same solid defensive unit from the outset will give them more confidence than if they have to try something new.
We saw last season with Fulham – who conceded 81 goals in the 2018/19 campaign – how you can be pulled apart if you get promoted and fail to sort out your backline.
Sheffield United only have to look at a team like Bournemouth – who they play on the opening day of the campaign – who were promoted with Artur Boruc in goal, stuck with him for two seasons in the Premier League, and have been a success.
The Blades need to ensure they have a solid base from which to work with and acquiring Henderson could be key in ensuring a positive start.
How big a boost would Henderson returning be? Join the discussion by commenting below…
