An excellent weekend for Leeds United was the exact opposite to Sheffield United, who failed to beat West Brom and have slipped to two points behind Daniel Farke’s side.
The Whites are now two clear of Chris Wilder’s men and three above Burnley, who could only manage a 0-0 draw against Middlesbrough on Sunday night. Going into the new year, Leeds look well-positioned.
But things have gone from bad to worse in the wake of their 1-1 draw against Carlos Corberan’s old side. Indeed, boss Wilder has declared himself “disappointed” after one of his key players picked up an injury.
£15m Sheffield United star’s season ends early on Sunday
Sheffield United, much like Leeds and Burnley this season, have prided themselves on their defensive solidity. Wilder’s men have kept 15 clean sheets in 24 Championship games, conceding only 12 goals.
Harry Souttar has played a key role. He has played in 21 of Sheffield United’s 24 Championship games, with the Blades conceding three and failing to keep a clean sheet in two of the three games he’s missed.
Now, it has been confirmed that the £15m Australia international has been ruled out for the rest of the season and could be sidelined for up to a year due to an achilles injury, prompting a post on Instagram.
Souttar confirmed his loan has come to an end, already: “Thanks to everyone at Sheffield United amazing club with great people. Unfortunately that’s me out for a while but I wish everyone at the club all the best for the rest of the season and beyond. Once a blade always a blade.”
Chris Wilder comments on Harry Souttar after West Brom draw
A huge blow for the Blades, with Souttar a mainstay in the side and only missing two of the three games he has been absent for due to suspension or injury. The other, was moments after he actually joined.
Wilder said on Sunday that Souttar was “absolutely gutted” after learning he would be miss the rest of the season and miss the second half of Sheffield United’s push to finish above Leeds in the league table.
“He is absolutely gutted,” Wilder told BBC Radio Sheffield on Souttar’s injury. “Devastated for him, he loved it here. Big disappointment to lose the big fella because he has been incredible.”
Souttar may actually have joined Leeds earlier this year, with the defender keen on a move to Elland Road in January only for Leicester to prevent a deal in January given Leeds were a promotion rival at that stage.
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