Sheffield United: '˜I didn't want to be forced out of the Lane'

Stefan Scougall aims to make the most of his reprieve at Sheffield United by proving he deserves a place in Chris Wilder's starting eleven.
Stefan Scougall could make his first start of the season against Crewe Alexandra tonight ©2016 Sport Image all rights reservedStefan Scougall could make his first start of the season against Crewe Alexandra tonight ©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved
Stefan Scougall could make his first start of the season against Crewe Alexandra tonight ©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved

The Scot was poised to leave Bramall Lane towards the end of last season after being told he did not feature in Nigel Adkins’ plans.

But his departure and Wilder’s subsequent appointment promises to kick-start Scougall’s career with the League One club.

Stefan Scougall was set to leave Bramall Lane before Chris Wilder's appointment 
©2016 Sport Image all rights reservedStefan Scougall was set to leave Bramall Lane before Chris Wilder's appointment 
©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved
Stefan Scougall was set to leave Bramall Lane before Chris Wilder's appointment ©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved

“It’s been a long time and I’m happy to be back,” Scougall said. “I never wanted to leave here but, if you’re not wanted, then there’s no point in sitting or hanging around. But the new gaffer says he wants me here and now it’s up to me to show that he’s right.”

Scougall made his first United appearance since February as a second-half substitute against Bolton Wanderers three days ago. Tonight, when Crewe Alexandra visit South Yorkshire in the EFL Cup, the 23-year-old looks set to be handed a more prominent role as Wilder rotates his squad.

Scougall was awarded his league debut by United during a league fixture against Crewe midway through the 2013/14 campaign. Fighting relegation at the time, reaching the semi-finals of the FA Cup later that season helped restore confidence and belief behind the scenes.

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Wilder is a big fan of Scougall's attitude and ability ©2016 Sport Image all rights reservedWilder is a big fan of Scougall's attitude and ability ©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved
Wilder is a big fan of Scougall's attitude and ability ©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved

“When I came here, we were down towards the bottom,” Scougall said. “But going so far (in the cup) really helped to fire everything back up. A few things happened along the way which really helped us start playing well in the league again. That’s why it’s always nice to go as far as you can.”

Stefan Scougall was set to leave Bramall Lane before Chris Wilder's appointment 
©2016 Sport Image all rights reservedStefan Scougall was set to leave Bramall Lane before Chris Wilder's appointment 
©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved
Stefan Scougall was set to leave Bramall Lane before Chris Wilder's appointment ©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved

“As players, as bad as it sounds, we’d rather be playing than training,” Scougall added. “That’s just the way it is because it’s what we came into the game to do.

“If the gaffer makes some changes, which he might because the matches come fast, then hopefully I get in there, get that place and put down a marker which makes it hard for me not to be involved week in and week out.”