Phil Jagielka reveals what Neil Warnock was like at Sheffield United - 'he did strange things' | OneFootball

Phil Jagielka has reflected on playing under Neil Warnock at Sheffield United...

Phil Jagielka's time with Sheffield United has to be best remembered for his development under Neil Warnock, where he evolved into a leader and one of the team's most reliable performers.

Initially a midfielder, Neil Warnock’s trust saw the Sheffield United ace adapt into defence. He showcased his versatility in other ways as well, with that certainly not the only position he played in for Sheffield United.

The standout moment came in 2005/06, when Jagielka captained the Blades to promotion to the Premier League. He played every league game and would not return to the second tier until 2021/22 at the age of 38. It's a reflection of his durability but also his importance.

His knack for stepping up in big moments made him a fan favourite at Bramall Lane. However, it was Jagielka's willingness to fill in as goalkeeper during an injury crisis that added to his cult status.

Phil Jagielka details what Neil Warnock was like at Sheffield United

Jagielka’s Warnock-era spell laid the foundation for the accomplished defender he later became with Everton for many years in English football's top flight. He has reflected on that time at Sheffield United since recently, too.

Speaking via Call Yourself a Fan on YouTube, Jagielka said: "I thought Neil Warnock was pretty normal. He was my first gaffer as a young lad, so I thought whatever he did was standard.

"He was a bit aggressive at times, but it was only when I went to play for other managers that I realised he was absolutely mental."

When discussing Warnock’s methods, Jagielka added: "He didn’t take a lot of the training. He’d often go and get his hair blow-dried in the morning. We’d all be training and he would turn up at about one o’clock with his brolly to go through set-pieces.

"He did strange things. When it came to winter and he’d had his bouffant done, he wouldn’t want to hold the umbrella himself while he was going through his tactics. He made me hold the brolly, and I’m thinking, ‘What’s going on here?’

"I’m stood next to the manager looking like an absolute plonker, but Neil was clever; he knew what characters to pick on.

"I stood there next to Neil, getting hammered by the boys as soon as I walked in. It was sort of his way of making you grow up as a man. I’ve heard that story many times — that he has picked different individuals every time he has gone to a club."

Neil Warnock's Sheffield United and EFL legacy

Warnock managed his boyhood club Sheffield United for nearly eight years from December 1999 to May 2007. It's fair to say his methods may not always be orthodox but his tenure is remembered as a transformative era for the club.

It was an often tumultuous era as well but it saw the club evolve from a struggling second-tier side into a serious Premier League competitor. It was defined by high-intensity "blood and guts" football, which summarises the Blades' legend well.

They also had memorable cup runs, and ultimately, a heartbreaking relegation. That is why he will be idolised at Bramall Lane forever. Jagielka has plenty to thank him for, even if other managers were more 'normal' than Warnock was.

He is an EFL great, having the record for the most promotions in English professional football. He achieved eight promotions throughout his managerial career. His successes span the entire football pyramid, including four separate instances of guiding teams to the top flight. Simply magnificent.