The next up-and-coming talent out of the Sheffield United academy is young playmaker Oliver Arblaster.
Arblaster was handed his full Championship debut by Paul Heckingbottom in last Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Cardiff City. Altogether, Arblaster has made four Championship starts this season which shows exactly how much Heckingbottom rates him. And also trusts him.
Heckingbottom is well-aware of the midfielder’s ability and attitude, having previously managed him during his stint with Sheffield United’s development team.
The 18-year-old has great potential, and Paul Heckingbottom went on record as he told Yorkshire Live “He’s good but he’s got loads to learn.”
Heckingbottom expanded:
“He’s got to bridge that gap and get better. He wants to learn and works hard and trains hard. Handles the ball well, we think he’s got a good chance to become a regular here.” [Yorkshire Live]
Due to all of the injuries, Arblaster has been able to feature for the Blades this season. But with the likes of Sander Berge, John Fleck and Tommy Doyle waiting to come back from injuries perhaps Sheffield United will be looking to send Arblaster out on loan in January, to get more first-team experience.
Jack Lester and Stuart McCall have been most impressed by his progress in the last 12 months and he’s been tipped to have a bright future in the game.
Kyron Gordon and Sydie Peck are also two development players that United have high hopes for, and the pair have been sent out on loan to gain senior experience. And Arblaster could follow suit.