Sheffield United Should Add Different Profile to Squad This Summer – Opinion | OneFootball

As Sheffield United prepare for another promotion push in the Championship, recruitment will once again be the key factor in determining whether the Blades can return to the Premier League.

Chris Wilder and the club’s recruitment team have a number of areas to strengthen this summer, but one opportunity that could prove particularly attractive has emerged following Southampton’s decision not to renew Ross Stewart’s contract. The Scottish striker is now available on a free transfer and, despite concerns over his injury record, he could be exactly the type of forward Sheffield United currently lack.

Sheffield United Currently Lack a Striker Like Ross Stewart

Heading into pre-season, the Blades’ striker options are expected to consist of Patrick Bamford, Tom Cannon and Tyrese Campbell. There is quality within that group, but each player offers something different in terms of profile. Campbell thrives when running into space, Cannon is a penalty-box striker who likes to play on the shoulder of defenders, while Bamford’s game is built around movement, pressing and intelligent link-up play.

What Sheffield United do not currently possess is a genuine physical focal point capable of changing the dynamic of a match.

At his best, Stewart is something of a battering ram. Standing at over six feet tall and blessed with both strength and athleticism, Stewart gives defenders a completely different challenge. He can occupy centre-backs physically, win aerial duels and provide a direct outlet when teams are pressing aggressively.

There are games where intricate passing combinations and clever movement are enough to unlock opponents, but there are also plenty of occasions where a team simply needs to go longer, play forward earlier and compete for second balls higher up the pitch. Stewart excels in those situations.

Is the Scotsman the Missing Piece of the Puzzle?

For Sheffield United, having a striker with those attributes would provide an alternative striker option that is currently missing from the squad. The Blades have often looked at their best when they can vary their attacking approach rather than becoming predictable. Stewart would give Wilder the option of playing more directly when required without sacrificing mobility or work rate.

Importantly, he is not simply a target man who stands in the box waiting for crosses. Stewart’s best years at Sunderland showcased a player capable of running channels and stretching defences. His athleticism allows him to cover ground effectively, while his physical presence creates space for teammates operating around him.

That could be particularly beneficial for players such as Patrick Bamford and Callum O’Hare, both of whom thrive when operating in pockets of space. Stewart’s ability to occupy defenders could create additional room for Sheffield United’s creative players to influence games.

During periods of last season, Sheffield United utilised two forwards, and there is every chance Wilder continues to deploy that system when circumstances require it. If that remains part of the tactical plan, then carrying only three recognised senior strikers would appear risky across a demanding Championship campaign.

The Championship is arguably the most physically demanding league in English football. With 46 league matches, cup competitions and relentless midweek fixtures, squad depth is essential. Four senior strikers feels like the minimum requirement for a club expecting to challenge near the top of the table.

Campbell and Cannon could form one partnership, while Stewart’s physicality could complement Bamford’s technical skills in a front two. His aerial ability would also provide an additional threat from crosses and set pieces.

The One Red Flag of Signing Ross Stewart

Of course, any discussion surrounding Stewart must address the obvious concern. His injury record is far from ideal.

The Scottish international has endured a frustrating few seasons after suffering significant injury setbacks. What once looked like a straightforward rise towards Premier League football became interrupted by lengthy spells on the sidelines, and that uncertainty will undoubtedly make potential suitors think twice before committing substantial wages.

While injuries have limited his momentum, Stewart still managed 27 Championship appearances for Southampton last season. He also contributed nine goals and a couple of assists despite not always being a guaranteed starter. Those are respectable numbers considering the circumstances and suggest there is still a productive Championship striker there if his fitness can be managed correctly.