Paul Heckingbottom addresses the immediate future of Sheffield United midfield talent

Sheffield United chief Paul Heckingbottom believes that teenage midfielder Oliver Arblaster could fire himself into first team contention ahead of the upcoming campaign, as stated whilst in conversation with The Star.

The 18-year-old impressed Heckingbottom and Co. during a pre-season friendly against Scunthorpe United at the weekend and could force his way into the first team squad more regularly despite there being good levels of competition in the midfield already. 

The England U18 international, who enjoyed a productive loan stint with Bradford Park Avenue in the National League North last time out, can operate as a central midfielder or slightly more advanced. 

Yet to make a first team appearance in the league or in the Cup, Arblaster was named on the bench for the Blades last season in successive Championship fixtures in March. 

Addressing what the immediate future might look like for the exciting teenager, Heckingbottom told The Star: “Right now, I would look at keeping him. I enjoy working with him. It’s a good environment for him to be in, being around these players.

“If he keeps playing well enough then he might well get in the team because that’s the way it is and that’s how we want to operate.”

“We’ll see. I thought Oliver showed us some really good moments.”

The verdict 

To impress Heckingbottom, amidst the talent that is already on display at Sheffield United, Arblaster must be an extremely exciting talent. 

Gaining experience with England at youth level, and spending the summer close to the first team, the young midfielder will have certainly benefitted from these experiences. 

It remains to be seen what the next step is for the young midfielder but it will be no surprise if EFL clubs start monitoring him