Key areas Sheffield United must look to strengthen following retained list announcement

After falling short at the semi-final stage of this year's Championship play-offs, Sheffield United can be proud of their efforts as a collective.

Following Paul Heckingbottom's arrival, the club saw a superb upturn in form, eventually finishing in fifth place in the Championship table.

But following Tuesday's retained list announcement, it is clear there is still work to do heading into the 2022/23 campaign if the Blades are to seal a much coveted return to the Premier League.

In terms of goalkeepers, Wes Foderingham has been a consistent performer since Heckingbottom took over at United back in November. Former Stoke City man Adam Davies looks to also continue as his understudy, with the Blades confirming the 29-year-old has been offered a new deal.

In defence, John Egan and Jack Robinson will look to maintain their partnership, with cover a potential option to be looked at. Departing centre back Filip Uremovic could have perhaps provided said cover, but with Chris Basham also remaining in South Yorkshire, a younger option may look to be sought out.

In midfield, Morgan Gibbs-White and Conor Hourihane will return to their parent clubs in Wolves and Aston Villa respectively, although there is uncertainty surrounding the latter's ongoing situation. Youngster Iliman Ndiaye has impressed and, still only 22, will continue his development under the Blades' watchful eye.

One player who could perhaps be sought out is Derby County captain Tom Lawrence, who has attracted from a number and clubs, and could look to move on following the Rams' relegation.

The 28-year-old found the net 11 times and with United seemingly preferring a 3-4-3 or 3-5-2 systems this season, he could perhaps provide another dimension in attack.

Speaking of