A number of Sheffield United’s international players took part in their nations games yesterday, and it wasn’t a good day for United’s senior players on international duty.
Sander Berge started for Norway in their UEFA Nations League game against Slovenia. Despite taking the lead, Slovenia overturned the deficit and won the game 2-1.
Berge played in a deeper role than what he plays with the Blades, and ultimately, the Norwegian manager didn’t get the best use out of him. The midfielder wasn’t much of a creative force from this deep position, and the Norway fans were left unimpressed by his performance. On the flip side, some Blades called the Norwegian manager “clueless”, for playing Berge in such a deep role.
The Sheffield United captain, John Egan, also captained Ireland against Scotland yesterday. United’s centre-back put his nation in front, as he swivelled on the ball and fired home a right-footed volley into the bottom right corner. Ultimately, Egan’s goal was cancelled out and Scotland went on to win the game 2-1. The Blades skipper was one of Ireland’s best performers in the game.
George Baldock saw action for Greece as they lost 1-0 to big underdogs Cyprus. A shock result, but Greece are still going to top their Nations League group. United’s right-wingback was something of an attacking outlet for his nation yesterday, Baldock registered a key pass, and one big chance was created. He also won four of seven ground duels.
Meanwhile, Daniel Jebbison came on for the last few mins in England u20’s 2-1 victory over Morocco. United’s promising striker was desperately unlucky to not increase England’s lead, as he tricked his way past a defender and unleashed a strike from the corner of the area which forced a good save from the Moroccan goalkeeper.