Sunday’s game provided us with a little bit of a ‘I didn’t know he was still playing’ moment.
Indeed, it left a number of fans, not just Sheffield United ones rather stunned to see that Jack Rodwell was making a Premier League appearance for the first time since May 2017 when he was with Sunderland.
The midfielder came on as a substitute for Chris Basham in the second-half, and speaking about the midfielder, Blades boss Chris Wilder discussed how difficult it has been for him to get into the side, but insisted that there would still be chances for him further down the road:
“It’s been difficult for Jack because Basham’s been up there. Bash has to recognise he needs to keep his performances top drawer. Jack’s been pushing. There’s an opportunity for him to play.”
To which there were a variety of responses from the Blades fans on social media, some of whom saw it as an endorsement of Basham and a way to show that his position isn’t totally secure, whilst others weren’t too pleased with the idea of seeing more of Rodwell in the future.
Just decent management. Letting bash know to not get too comfortable. Bash has set such high standards for himself now that any little pass goes wayward or he isn't bombing on as much then Jack's a reminder to step it up. JR isn't at all threatening Bash but keeps Bash on boil.
— Tom Lemons (@LemonsTom) July 6, 2020
Oh dear https://t.co/8lPDuhsINB
— Paddy 🇨🇮 (@sufcpaddy_) July 6, 2020
“There’s an opportunity for him to play” 😭😭😭 https://t.co/b1b3UBFpa3
— Liam⚔️ (@sufcliam) July 6, 2020
It can’t just be me that wanted to headbutt a wall when he came on surely
— Owen Berry (@OwenBer46332762) July 6, 2020
Plus the players know that CW isn’t frightened to cull any player if he thinks it’s for the benefit of the club. No player is guaranteed a shirt for the following season as Coutts, Duffy and a few others have found out in recent times.
— Original United ™️ (@original1889) July 6, 2020
What about you? What do you make of Wilder’s comments on Rodwell? Would you like to see him get more games in the future?