Sheffield United: Stefan Scougall gets chance to fight for Blades place

Stefan Scougall will be allowed to stake his claim for a place in Sheffield United's starting eleven next season.
Stefan Scougall will be handed a chance to impress during pre-season
© copyright : Blades Sports PhotographyStefan Scougall will be handed a chance to impress during pre-season
© copyright : Blades Sports Photography
Stefan Scougall will be handed a chance to impress during pre-season © copyright : Blades Sports Photography

The former Scotland under-21 international was expected to leave Bramall Lane this summer after finishing last season on loan with Fleetwood Town.

But the departure of manager Nigel Adkins, combined with Chris Wilder’s arrival at Bramall Lane, means Scougall is set for a reprieve. Wilder, who signed a three year contract after being unveiled as Adkins successor a fortnight ago, is known to be an admirer of the youngster’s talents and views him as a potential solution to United’s goalscoring problems from deep lying roles. With Jose Baxter suspended after testing positive for a prohibited recreational substance, Chris Basham (3) and Dean Hammond (2) were the club’s most prolific midfielders in league competition last term.

Chris Wilder (left) and his assistant Alan Knill (right) wants players with the right work ethic at Bramall Lane 
©2016 Sport Image all rights reservedChris Wilder (left) and his assistant Alan Knill (right) wants players with the right work ethic at Bramall Lane 
©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved
Chris Wilder (left) and his assistant Alan Knill (right) wants players with the right work ethic at Bramall Lane ©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved

Despite being criticised by Adkins for a perceived lack of fitness, Scougall’s industry also impressed Wilder and his assistant Alan Knill after moving to Highbury on a short-term deal.

Steven Pressley, the Fleetwood manager, echoed those sentiments soon after the switch was confirmed.

“He’s not played a lot of football and his energy levels over the past three games have been quite incredible,” Pressley said.

Scougall, previously of Livingston, started only seven games during Adkins’ 11 month reign. But the 23-year-old was a member of the squad which reached the semi-finals of both the FA and Capital One cups under Adkins’ predecessor Nigel Clough. Scougall’s contract with United expires at the end of the forthcoming campaign.

Wilder's appointment could be good for Scougall © copyright : Blades Sports PhotographyWilder's appointment could be good for Scougall © copyright : Blades Sports Photography
Wilder's appointment could be good for Scougall © copyright : Blades Sports Photography

Wilder, meanwhile, is understood to be tweaking the pre-season programme Adkins arranged before being relieved of his duties. United are known to have approached Burnley about the possibility of facing Sean Dyche’s side as part of their preparations for the forthcoming campaign before Wilder’s arrival. Although it remains unclear whether this fixture will still take place, United are set to announce that aspects of their summer training schedule have been altered early next month.

United’s Community Foundation will hold football camps at the Steelphalt Academy, the Derek Dooley Sports and Community Centre, Westfield Sports Centre and Meadowhead School between May 31 and June 3.

Prices are £12 per day or £40 for the duration although these are subject to review.

For more information or to book, telephone 0114 261 9883 or email [email protected]