'It's helped a lot' - Chris Basham highlights reason behind Sheffield United's recent defensive solidarity

Sheffield United defender Chris Basham thinks moving to a back three and Paul Heckingbottom’s training methods are two major reasons behind their recent defensive improvement.

The Blades have conceded just one goal in their last five matches, a run that has helped propel them well within the mix for a top six finish.

Under previous manager Slavisa Jokanovic, United would often operate with a back four, which is a system unfamiliar with this group of players following Chris Wilder’s long reign at the club.

But with Heckingbottom now at the helm, United have gone back to basics and what they know best, which has helped them rediscover their best form.

Speaking in the pre-match press conference ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Hull City, Basham opened up on their newfound defensive solidarity, and just how much clean sheets are worth to the group.

He said: “There’s a lot more steel about us, not just the back three or the back five, it’s togetherness in the full group. We know how to play the back five formation very well and I think that’s what has helped a lot.

“With what Paul does on the training ground he takes the back three to one side and works on individual stuff, which is working quite well and reaping rewards on the pitch because of you’re keeping a clean sheet at one end, nine times out of ten you get the win.

“It’s [moving to a back three] breathed confidence into the group. Everyone knows and understands each other’s games. John Egan and I have played about 200 games together in that formation so it’s definitely something that we’re used to doing.

“Jack Robinson has been doing fantastically well, Ben Davies has been outstanding, and we’ve got more competition now with Charlie Goode coming in, who’s been