Paul Heckingbottom's faith justified as Ky Gordon makes statement on Sheffield United league bow

Kyron Gordon says he felt he always had a chance of fulfilling his Sheffield United dream the minute Paul Heckingbottom was appointed first team manager.

The 19-year-old lifelong Blade made his league debut in the 1-0 defeat at Millwall yesterday - a moment to cherish for the Sheffield-born defender.

Having impressed under Heckingbottom in the under 23s, Gordon was given his chance earlier in the season by previous manager Slavisa Jokanovic in the EFL Cup.

Gordon has been a regular sight among first team training sessions and has been with the matchday squad on numerous occasions.

He featured for the first time under Heckingbottom in the FA Cup at Wolves in January.

However, the door opened for him to be handed his league chance following an injury to Chris Basham and Charlie Goode's suspension.

And the youngster can be pleased with his performance as he more than acquitted himself well.

It was yet another example of how Heckingbottom's faith in the younger players at Sheffield United was justified.

"I have always said they will get chances but they have to be good enough," he explained.

"The big reason was we still wanted to make sure we could play. We went with three attacking players because I thought we could cause Millwall problems.

"It didn't work out that way but a big part of that was making sure we have that balance right to get the delivery from both sides in all areas of the pitch.

"If you count Bill he was one of four academy graduates in the starting XI and a couple more on the bench.

"It's important when we are stretched with the injuries and suspensions that we do have players who can step up and contribute."

An away game at The Den is not the easiest of experiences for any youngster to be thrown into,