Sheffield United dressing room verdict on Man City loanees Tommy Doyle and James McAtee

Manchester City starlets Tommy Doyle and James McAtee have been praised for their impact on and off the pitch at loan club Sheffield United.

Having progressed through the City ranks, Doyle and McAtee headed to the Championship club to continue their development this campaign. It may yet end in promotion to the Premier League with the Blades sitting second in the standings.

Although their form has dropped in recent weeks - with Middlesbrough hot on their heels - United still hold a four-point advantage on the Reds with an extra game to play against Reading on Tuesday night. Having found themselves on the bench recently, Doyle and McAtee could return to the starting XI in midweek.

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Doyle, 21, has made 22 appearances in the Championship this season with two goals and two assists. McAtee, 20, has four goals and two assists to show for his efforts from 26 matches.

John Fleck was asked for his view on the City loanees ahead of Tuesday's clash with Reading. He said: "They've been brilliant. First and foremost, really nice boys.

"Tommy's had a loan spell before so, at the beginning, you could see he was that bit more experienced to the level. Macca's [McAtee] really upped his game from the start, and he just looks a lot stronger and quicker than when he first came."

Reflecting on the impression made by McAtee, Fleck added: "He has been great. Since the first week, you can see a massive difference, even just his body shape, he looks taller and stronger. Obviously credit to the guys here looking after him, but most importantly [credit to] himself working hard."

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