Not many predicted Sheffield United to lose to Sunderland at Wembley during Saturday’s play-off final and certainly, not many will have seen Sunderland coming from behind to win.
But that is exactly what happened during the play-off final this weekend, a game that caused so much heartache for Leeds a year ago after losing to Southampton. Now, it is Sheffield United’s turn to feel it.
Tyrese Campbell had given the Blades the lead, only for Sunderland to respond. Eliezer Mayenda levelled the tie on 76 minutes before new Brighton signing Tom Watson scored a superb 95th-minute winner.
When Leeds lost the play-off final, the club were forced to sell Archie Gray, Georginio Rutter, Crysencio Summerville and Glen Kamara. Sheffield United will have to do the same, and Leeds should be alert.
Three Sheffield United players Leeds now need to consider
Michael Cooper
Many have made the point that if Leeds had Cooper in goal this season instead of Illan Meslier, securing promotion would have been a walk in the park. Sam Parkin thinks Cooper would propel The Whites.
Any normal season would see Cooper considered the league’s best, only for James Trafford. Bought for £4m from Plymouth, Leeds would be wise to consider a move for the Sheffield United giant this month.
Gustavo Hamer
Leeds had a £13m bid rejected for Hamer last summer. Interest from the decision makers in the Brazilian-born star remains, and he will surely consider an exit having won the League’s Player of the Season award.
The need for a no.10 at Leeds is growing with Brenden Aaronson tailing off as the season went on. Hamer would be a solid purchase for The Whites, but it remains to be seen how much Sheffield United want.
Harrison Burrows
There were reports last summer that Leeds had tried to sign Burrows from Peterborough. But instead, he went to Bramall Lane where he has starred. Six goals, six assists in 46 Championship games this season.
Junior Firpo couldn’t believe he wasn’t in the Championship Team of the Season, with Burrows picked in front of him. If Firpo does leave on a free, then considering Burrows as a signing is a real no-brainer.
