Sheffield United talking points as Iliman Ndiaye sends Paul Heckinbottom clear message

Sheffield United fell to a disappointing defeat against Scunthorpe United in their third pre-season outing. The Blades were at sea in the first-half as they took on the National League side that has just been relegated from League Two.

It's always difficult to try not to read too much into pre-season fixtures, but the first-half showing at Glanford Park will no doubt have been a concern for Paul Heckingbottom. The Blades gave a number of youngsters the opportunity to impress against the Iron, but that backfired as the hosts raced to a 3-0 lead at the break.

A brace from Colin Daniel and an Alfie Beestin strike gave Keith Hill's side a deserved lead at the break in a shocking defensive display from the visitors. The Blades were all over the place defensively as Scunthorpe capitalised on some poor defending.

Here are some of the key talking points from the Blades defeat at Glanford Park.

It was an impressive breakthrough campaign for the Blades youngster last season, scoring seven times in 35 appearances and he's been one of the standout performers so far this summer. Iliman Ndiaye made the difference from the bench as he gave the Blades some second-half impetus going forward.

The 22-year-old may not have much senior football to his name, but he's showing time and time again why he should be one of the first names on Heckingbottom's team sheet. His low drive reduced the deficit at Glanford Park to one goal after Rhian Brewster gave the Blades a way back into the tie.

The youngster's endeavour up front created problems for the Iron back line and gave the Blades a presence that they were lacking in the first-half. If he's able to carry this pre-season form into the start of next season, United could get off to an