Sheffield United’s latest injury verdict after vital win at Luton

Chris Wilder is optimistic that Ben Brereton Diaz’s injury setback will prove to be short-lived, as the on-loan striker’s hamstring issue disrupted their preparations for last weekend’s clash with Luton. The absence of the Chilean international from the Blades’ lineup at Kenilworth Road was visible and it was further compounded by the absence of fellow forward Oli McBurnie.

In response to these setbacks, with Rhian Brewster returning from suspension and starting from the bench, James McAtee stepped in to support Cameron Archer, resulting in a slight tactical adjustment that paid dividends as both players found the back of the net in a much-needed 3-1 victory for Sheffield United.

Wilder will be hoping for the swift return of either Brereton Diaz or McBurnie ahead of the upcoming fixture against Brighton, recognising the importance of having key attacking options available for selection.

He told SUTV: “It’s a disappointing one for us, because of the impact he’s had on the team since he’s come into the group.”

More injury woes struck at Luton as Rhys Norrington-Davies was forced off the field just moments into the game. The defender had recently made a comeback from a 14-month injury layoff, adding to the frustration.

While it was somewhat relieving to learn that the damaged hamstring wasn’t the same one that had kept him out for so long, the visible emotions displayed by the defender upon leaving the pitch hinted at serious concerns regarding his current injury.

Wilder, in his post-match reaction, spoke of the concerning injury to Norrington-Davies: “He has been outstanding in terms of getting himself back from a career-threatening injury and has got in the team. So it’s a huge setback.”

In more positive news, Gustavo Hamer was forced off with a dead leg which shouldn’t be too serious.