BladesPod - The Sheffield United Podcast

Ben and Andrew discuss an entertaining if ultimately maddening 3-3 draw with Fulham at the Lane, as McBurnie and Brereton Diaz briefly run riot before pesky VAR and even peskier added on time take their toll. Next episode will be after the Chelsea game - apologies for lower sound quality than usual in this episode, we had some internet difficulties. Thanks for listening!

With the Blades taking a breather for a few weeks, Ben and Andrew cook up 10 (realistic) things they'd like to see from Sheffield United for the rest of this season. Can we ruin someone else's season? Will Will break his duck? And can someone "do a Ramsdale"? Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew look back at United's 2-2 draw at Bournemouth, which includes Oli Arblaster's top-flight debut, Ivo Grbic finally getting the chance to make some saves, an hilariously poor penalty and plenty more at either end of the pitch. Then, we discuss the excellent news of the new training centre, plus have a few words for the departing Paul Mitchell and United seemingly making some moves for the future... Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Bleh. Ben and Andrew talk about United's latest hammering probably in more detail than it deserves. Cheers if you listen, no judgement if you don't. UTB?

Ben and Andrew catch up on United's latest pointless endeavours: a 5-0 defeat to Brighton, and 1-0 defeat at Wolves which was at least not an embarrassment. We also discuss the good news of Oliver Arblaster penning a long-term deal, fun and goals for the U21s, and Arsenal at home on Monday (uhoh). Thanks for listening and apologies for the lack of pod last week - UTB.

Ben and Andrew look back on a big win for the Blades on the road at Luton, with a beast mode performance from Vini Souza underpinning a fine defensive effort. We talk about getting over the 11 point hump, the value of Ben Osborn, whether Ivo Grbic comes back into the team for Brighton, how to solve a problem like McBurnie, and plenty more. Thanks for listening and UTB!

Ben and Andrew briefly discuss United's disgraceful capitulation at home to Aston Villa, before turning our attention to the surprise (ish?) exit of John Fleck right at the end of the transfer window. We look back on our Scottish hero's highs and lows at United, with our favourite moments, his best goals, and where he ranks in our all-time best United sides. Worraplaya. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew double up to talk about a goal-filled week for United, albeit with a distressing amount finding the back of the wrong net from our point of view: we discuss the 5-2 against Brighton, the 3-2 against Palace, United's January transfer window, Villa on Satdi, Wilder's latest odd moment from Selhurst Park, and a fair bit more. Thanks for listening and UTB!

Ben and Andrew review an entertaining game with West Ham - goals, red cards, penalties, late drama, controversy, and a match we didn't lose, what's not to love? We talk about United looking so much clearer of thought in possession, Andre Brooks starring, Ben Brereton-Diaz netting on his Premier League debut, and all the big moments from the game. Finally, we look ahead to this weekend's FA Cup tie with Brighton. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew preview this weekend's home match (a home match! At last!) against West Ham, before spinning the roulette wheel of news and hitting 16 different stories from the last few weeks, including new contracts for some young players, points deductions for our - ahem - rivals, Basham on the road to recovery, and the retirement of a perennial thorn in our collective sides. Thanks for listening and tolerating my croaky voice, UTB!

Ben and Andrew recap a pleasantly drama-free win over Gillingham in the FA Cup, as Will Osula fires in his first Blades goals and a James McAtee double "avenges" the Nigel Adkins 4-0 on this ground. We discuss welcome minutes for Rhys Norrington-Davies, a positive development in Dan Jebbison's contract situation, the draw for the next round, and a few other odds and ends. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

With not much to say about a shrug-worthy loss at City, Ben and Andrew turn their attention to what looks like being a surprisingly active January for the Blades, before a returning feature: playing "deal or no deal" with the many, many out of contract players on United's books. We try to answer whether each player should get a new contract immediately, whether we should give it 6 months, or whether we should be saying bye-bye. Lots of big names up for discussion. Thanks for listening, UTB and happy new year!

Ben and Andrew review a not-particularly-happy Christmas for the Blades who toss away two points in the 97th minute at Villa Park and then the full three in a baffling Boxing Day defeat to Luton Town. Thanks for listening, UTB and happy new year!

'Twas the pod before Christmas: Ben and Andrew catch up on a disappointingly standard defeat at Chelsea, look ahead to a trip to Villa and a big ol' game with Luton on Boxing Day, plus catch up on the latest news around Oli Arblaster, Rhys Norrington-Davies, Billy Sharp and [checks SEC filings] Dozy Mmobuosi. Next pod will be after the Luton game, thanks as always for listening and Merry Christmas from the pair of us x

Ben and Andrew are in buoyant mood as the Blades beat the Bees in Chris Wilder's second game, putting in their best performance of the season in the process. We go through the immediate changes Wilder has made, the improved play of Souza, Archer and Hamer, plus an eye-catching cameo from Anis Slimane. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew reflect on the first game of Chris Wilder's second spell as Blades boss, as United lose 2-0 to Liverpool but do at least put in a shift and stay in the game until late. We look at the immediate changes made to the lineup and tactics, whether they worked, and a slightly baffling end to the game from the officials. Thanks for listening and UTB!

Ben and Andrew discuss the sacking of Paul Heckingbottom, and the return of Chris Wilder as Blades manager. We reflect on Heckingbottom's achievements as boss, try and work through some best/worst case scenarios for Wilder's return, and how we're feeling about tomorrow night's match against Liverpool and the rest of the season with a new/old boss. Cheers for listening and UTB!

Ben and Andrew go over a painful shellacking at the hands of supposedly-lowly Bournemouth, and discuss where the club can go from here... apart from Burnley on Saturday, which we also preview. Thanks for listening you hardy lot, and UTB.

Ben and Andrew preview a big, potentially season-defining week for United with Bournemouth coming to the Lane on Saturday - we discuss the shoots of recovery in the previous two games and David Brooks returning to Bramall Lane, before Andrew embarks on a huge rant about the reaction to the Everton points deduction (18th in the table baby!!!), the implications on United's season, and how our international Blades fared. Cheers for listening and UTB!

Ben and Andrew recap a bonus point from Brighton that takes the Blades *off the bottom of the Premier League table*, as a red card and an own goal helps United to a 1-1 draw. Then, with the international break here and a third of the season played, we give out our school grades and reports for every player in the squad so far this season. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Six months to the day after beating Birmingham City away, Ben and Andrew have a Sheffield United win to talk about! The Blades beat Wolves in dramatic fashion to bag their first victory of the Premier League season, with Cameron Archer's thunderbolt and Oli Norwood's 100th minute penalty both crashing in off the bar. We talk about the relief of the win, the second half turnaround, how to view the game as a referendum on Heckingbottom the manager, the bizarre media reaction to the penalty, Jack Robinson's choice words, and a quick look ahead to Brighton (A). Thanks for listening, and UTB!

With neither Ben or Andrew catching the five-goal thriller at Arsenal, instead we decided to take a trip to another dimension this spooky season, to an alternate reality where tiny margins went the other way... listen in for how differently our season might have gone so far. Or, skip to 19 minutes and get an actual preview of our in-real-life game with Wolves this weekend. Cheers for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew go over United's latest defeat, this time to Man Utd, although the Blades do at least put in a spirited display in this one before running out of legs / viable substitutes in the second half and sliding to another L. Still, there's some praise for McBurnie, Robinson, Trusty, and Souza, a positive switch to 4-4-2, some questioning of Wes' reluctance to get his knees muddy, and the need for better set-pieces. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew are back to full fitness and ready to talk about United's distressingly limp display at Fulham, as the Blades at least manage a goal but otherwise are completely outplayed - and lose Chris Basham to a terrible injury. We spotlight a few players including Vini Souza and Auston Trusty, and look ahead to what should hopefully at least be a feisty night under the lights against Man Utd this weekend. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew muse over the Blades' latest defeat at West Ham, before looking at the wider picture of Paul Heckingbottom's future as manager and this weekend's "Loser Leaves Town" match-up with Fulham FC. Cheers for listening and UTB!

Ben and Andrew try and find some words for United's historic hammering on Sunday, and wonder how the team can pick themselves up from it. Have a nice day, hardcore listeners!

Ben and Andrew reflect on the Blades' latest late kick to the teeth as an improbable 3 points becomes the expected 0 points thanks to two very late goals. We talk timewasting, added time, the scenes for Hamer's goal, and the spiky media aftermath from the game itself. We also look ahead to Newcastle at home on Sunday. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

As the international break comes to a close, Ben and Andrew pick out some reasons to be cheerful and reasons to be fearful for the rest of United's Premier League season. Plus, we look ahead to our weekend trip to Spurs. Cheers for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew review United picking up their first point of the season via the back of Jordan Pickford's head, and it would've been all three but for Jordan Pickford's face. Some afternoon for the England keeper, and some debut for Cameron Archer in an entertaining 2-2 draw. Thanks for listening and UTB!

Hal Stewart of Sheff Utd Way joins Ben this week to discuss a thrilling game with Man City, the delight of seeing United get a meaningful goal against the Champions, and all the other big moments from the game. We also discuss Cameron Archer's signing, hopes for the remainder of the transfer window, a big game with Everton, and Billy Sharp's LA Galaxy debut. Thanks so much to Hal for joining me, and to you for listening. UTB!

Ben and Andrew discuss some green shoots to come out of a second straight defeat for the Blades, as Gustavo Hamer swerves in United's first goal of the season and Vinicius Souza puts in an impressive debut in midfield before the ongoing lack of depth puts paid to a first point. Plus, we look ahead to the free hit of Man City at home, and two big weeks to get the squad straight before "the season really starts" in September. Finally, I (Ben) am launching a newsletter today covering Sheffield United Women for the upcoming season, which you can subscribe to FREE now on Substack: https://womenofsteel.substack.com/subscribe

Ben and Andrew discuss the arrivals of Gustavo Hamer and Tom Davies before a brief-ish chat about Crystal Palace: a starting XI from our nightmares, but a hard-working effort from the Blades nonetheless. We also touch on Billy Sharp signing for LA Galaxy, and the Lionesses reaching the World Cup final as well as our game with Forest on Friday night. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew discuss the Berge > Burnley sale, the arrival of Vinicius Souza, and the overall situation at the club on the eve of the new Premier League season. Then, after successfully (...) providing a multi-step plan for guaranteeing promotion last season, we turn our eyes towards mapping out what needs to go right for United to stave off relegation this time round - and how likely we think each one is to come off. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew give their final word on the Iliman Ndiaye departure and where it leaves United, before going head-to-head with some predictions with a difference ahead of the new season. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Things are starting to move at the Lane, and Ben and Andrew discuss the fact that Iliman Ndiaye is not currently one of them (despite Facebook Marketplace listings), plus the new signings of Anis Slimane, Yasser Larouci and Benie Traore. Then, we give our 10 things that we're looking forward to this season, including: can Ndiaye be our Zaha, who will be the next Billy Sharp-esque leader, and the chance to right a few "wrongs" after the behind-closed-doors season. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

With 1 month to go until Sheffield United v Crystal Palace to start our Premier League campaign, Ben and Andrew go over the current state of the club... including Iliman Ndiaye potentially leaving sooner than we'd all like. We also discuss potential new signings, squad players penning new deals, next summer's contract malaise, and a vibe check on enthusiasm levels for the Premier League season. Finally, we look at a potentially exciting summer for United Women as they begin their transition towards full-time football. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew have a quick chat about United's first few fixtures of next season, before reminiscing about two modern Blades greats who have now departed the club: Enda Stevens and Jack O'Connell. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew go over United's released and retained list, and the end of an era for the Blades as Jack O'Connell, Enda Stevens and Billy Sharp depart the club. We'll be talking more about O'Connell and Enda next time, but the rest of this one is all about the skipper. We discuss what it meant to us having Sharp as captain and talisman of a successful (and, for that matter, occasionally unsuccessful) team, before picking out our ten favourite Billy Sharp goals from his Blades career. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew go head-to-head to see who can draft the best team from every player who's represented Sheffield United in the last 25 years. 3-5-2 is the formation, and position matters - no crowbarring George Baldock in at left wingback. Who ends up with the best XI at the end of the draft? Head to @bladespod on Twitter to cast your vote. Thanks for listening and UTB!

It's that time of year again: Ben and Andrew hand out player ratings to 22 eligible players from United's promotion winning 2022-23 season, with detailed reasoning for each one plus some discussion on the fringe players who didn't quite play enough to merit a rating. Does anyone crack 10/10 this year, and who will inherit Oli McBurnie's wooden spoon from last season? Settle in for almost 100 minutes of podcast on that very subject. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew wrap up the final two games of the Championship season as the Blades reach a club-record 91 points at this level, before picking out our 10 biggest moments from the season: the events and decisions that underpinned United's return to the Premier League. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew relish United's 4-1 victory lap over a fairly-pathetic Preston, as the promotion party shows no sign of stopping and John Fleck signs off (maybe?) with one last goal for the road. Plus, we compare this promotion to the 2019 Chris Wilder-led one, and also revisit our "How To Win Promotion" blueprint from preseason. Thanks for listening and UTB!

The Blades are going up: Ben and Andrew are tired but giddy and ramble their way through some immediate thoughts on United clinching a return to the Premier League by beating West Brom last night. Thanks for listening and UTB!

Ben and Andrew reflect on a grand day out in the capital, even if it was punctuated by the now-standard Wembley defeat. We also look ahead to West Brom at home and a chance to clinch promotion in front of a packed Bramall Lane crowd, and to once again say thank you to the players and manager for this season. Thanks for listening and UTB!

Ben and Andrew react to United picking up another three points in the pursuit of Premier League football, thanks to another goal from the Salford Silva. We also discuss Jack Robinson briefly turning into Zidane, before pondering what sort of team to pick against Man City and whether it really matters... what will be will be. Cheers for listening, and UTB!

The Blades dispatch Cardiff 4-1 on Saturday to nudge ever-closer to promotion, and Ben and Andrew discuss the game and the standout moments. Adam Davies somehow ends up facing another penalty, but James McAtee and Jack Robinson turn it around. Ciaran Clark makes a goalscoring return, and Iliman Ndiaye gets another. Promotion could be just a win or two away, and we look ahead to Bristol City tomorrow night. Thanks for listening and UTB!

Ben and Andrew catch up on the Easter weekend's games, as the Blades pick up three points on a day where the chasing pack slip up, but then do everything possible to lose the game against Burnley. We look back at Wigan and the match with the Clarets, the state of play with six games to go, Cardiff (H), EFL awards and a few other odds and ends. Thanks for listening and UTB!

Ben and Andrew catch up on a very good Saturday for the Blades, hopefully to be followed by an Even Gooder Friday against Wigan. First, United get a precious win at Norwich thanks to James McAtee, and there's further good news as Boro get Warnocked. We look ahead to Wigan at the Lane and also follow up on some of our favourite listener suggestions for "evening the odds" against Manchester City. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew catch up on the latest Blades news from the international break, and look ahead to our trip to Carrow Road this weekend. Then, we discuss novel ways to "even the odds" in our cup semifinal against Man City, including allowing United to play players from the last 20 years, excluding anyone who's played at Wembley before, and changing City's kit to something a bit more... unique. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew relive all the key moments of a phenomenal FA Cup quarterfinal against Blackburn, as United triumph thanks to a dramatic late Tommy Doyle goal. An action-packed afternoon with so much to enjoy - oh and we're off to Wembley again. Thanks for listening and UTB!

Ben and Andrew are feeling much more upbeat after a big response from the Blades who win at Sunderland to stretch the gap over the chasing pack. We discuss a bold team selection from Heckingbottom, impressive showings from Jebbison and McAtee in particular, a masterclass in shutting down a game, our latest brush with Matthew Donohue, and Don Goodman doing his best to rile up every United fan who watched that game on TV last night. Plus, we look ahead to our FA Cup Quarter-Final with Blackburn! Thanks for listening, and UTB!

The Blades defeat 18 inches of snow to get the game on but Ben and Andrew are left sort of wishing they hadn't, as United limp to a dull 1-0 loss to Luton. Pressure now builds ahead of a crucial game against Sunderland, and we're left wondering whether we need to trust the senior heads to turn it round, or to rip it up and start again... either way, bring on the next game. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew reflect on three vital points for the Blades, as they pick up a 1-0 win at Reading to take advantage of the infamous game in hand. Plus, a look ahead to what should be a tight game against Luton Town this weekend. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

It's been a while, hasn't it? Ben and Andrew return to summarise the last few weeks of United, as stumbles at Millwall and Blackburn are punctuated by a scrambling win over Watford and an impressive defeat of Spurs in the FA Cup. Thanks for listening - and for your patience - and UTB!

In a quick episode before the weekend, Ben and Andrew reflect on the defeat to Middlesbrough before looking ahead to Millwall tomorrow. Thanks for listening, for those dedicated enough to do so!

Ben and Andrew are full of praise for the Blades' dismantling of Swansea City to complete a Welsh hat-trick for the season, although less impressed by the Swans' commitment to getting in a flap and Matthew Donohue's interesting interpretation of the laws. We discuss the contrasting finishes of Sander Berge and Jack Robinson, Oli McBurnie bagging against his BFFs, and another big game midweek as Boro come to the Lane. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Andrew is back on the grass after his bout of Beattie Flu and joins Ben to discuss the lively FA Cup replay win over Wrexham. We talk about a full debut for Ismaila Coulibaly, Billy Sharp playing angry, a penalty finally being scored at the Lane end, Ndiaye nipping to the loo and plenty more. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben is joined by Hal Stewart of Sheff Utd Way to discuss the latest goings-on at Bramall Lane: we talk about a dull draw with Rotherham, the Wrexham rematch, keeping our best players on deadline day, the general off-field situation and lots more. Thanks very much to Hal for stepping in, and thanks to you for downloading and listening - UTB!

Ben and Andrew react to the news of United being placed under a transfer embargo by the EFL, before diving into yet another win as the Blades complete the double over Hull and Daniel Jebbison finds the net again. We also talk about Jack Robinson throwing a man through the crust of the Earth, stolen scarves, the chasing pack, and Wrexham in the cup this weekend. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew look back on yet another win for the Blades, this time over Stoke City: picking up points vs playing well, defending leads, the value of Jayden Bogle, Ndiaye's knock, the performances of Berge and Sharp, and also a look ahead to Friday night's clash with Hull City. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

The Blades cruise past Millwall in the FA Cup and it's Deadpool vs Crosspool in the next round: Ben and Andrew talk about the win, the draw, and Daniel Jebbison grabbing his second goal for the club. In the second half of the pod, we talk "Deal or No Deal" for the 11 players who are out of contract this summer - new contract immediately, wait 6 months, or set for release? There's a few big names up for discussion. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew talk over an eventful evening for John Egan at Loftus Road, as the Blades rally late to snatch a (deserved?) point at QPR. Plus some thoughts on the commentary box of nightmares. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew discuss United picking up a fourth and fifth W in a row to complete a pretty-much-perfect festive period for the Blades, as they defeat Coventry and Blackpool and extend their lead over the chasing pack. James McAtee steps up, Iliman Ndiaye turns creator, and plenty of others put in solid performances as the Blades march on. Thanks for listening to BladesPod, and Happy New Year to you!

Ben and Andrew pick over United's moderately-comfortable win over Wigan, as the Blades make it six points out of six out of the World Cup break. John Egan locates the back of the net with his head, Billy Sharp scores yet another goyl and there's some tidy football to enjoy from Sander Berge, James McAtee and Iliman Ndiaye, plus a topless Ciaran Clark with a late entry for most amusing moment of the year. Next, Santa's been! We unwrap a few early Christmas presents for some of United's squad, and finally finish with wild speculation about the Blades' potential new owner(s). Thanks for listening, and happy Christmas to you!

Ben and Andrew talk through United's dull-but-welcome win over bottom side Huddersfield, which did at least feature another moment of inspiration from Iliman Ndiaye and a first league goal of the season for Billy Sharp. Plus, we give our thoughts on England failing to win the World Cup AGAIN, and who we'd like to see lift the trophy out of the final four. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew get their gamefaces on ahead of the resumption of the Blades' Championship season, including musings on Iliman Ndiaye at the World Cup, other goings-on at United over the last few weeks, who might be back to feature against Huddersfield, the upcoming run of fixtures, and what could be an epic Saturday. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

The Blades head into the World Cup break second in the table, and Ben and Andrew discuss a perfectly fine 1-0 win at Cardiff as United continue their excellent away record and bounce back after the Rotherham defeat. Oli Arblaster gets his first start, James McAtee makes a big impact, and George Baldock Hulk Smashes his way onto the scoresheet for the decisive goal. We also discuss Iliman Ndiaye heading to the World Cup, and congratulations once again to the Rainbow Blades for last night's win at the FSA Awards. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew crash back to earth after the Blades follow-up the hammering of Burnley with a desperately low-quality showing in a defeat to Rotherham. We try to pick the bones out of that one, and look ahead to Cardiff. One for the hardcore, this. Thanks if you do listen!

Hard to keep your feet on the ground after that one, so Ben and Andrew barely even try: United hammer Burnley 5-2 in a thrilling game at the Lane, with Oli McBurnie continuing his insanely good season as the Blades batter the league leaders. Plenty of praise for Ndiaye, Norwood, Baldock and almost-had-a-hat-trick Ahmedhodzic, Jack Robinson reliving his entire United career to date in one 90 minutes, the value of Ben Osborn, Basham in midfield, and plenty more. Plus - Rotherham tomorrow night! Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Back to back away wins for the Blades: Ben and Andrew discuss a fortuitous three points away at Bristol City but hey, they all count at the end of the season. We deliberate Heckingbottom's decision to yoink Khadra after barely half an hour, Ndiaye scoring again, a couple of hefty tackles - and also look ahead to the visit of table-topping Burnley on Saturday. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew have a Blades win to talk about - it may be Halloween but there wasn't much to be afraid of at the Hawthorns as United came home with a 2-0 win. Oli McBurnie scores again and heads away approximately a billion corners, but it's Iliman Ndiaye that we're waxing lyrical about once again. We also talk about a disappointing WBA, another injury(s), and look ahead to Bristol City tomorrow night. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew talk through another highly-entertaining game at Bramall Lane, as United battle back from 2-0 down at Norwich and almost win it (as well almost losing it). We discuss the puzzling team selection, guts vs quality, Norwich inexplicably winding everyone up, McBurnie once again stealing the show, and a goalscoring effort from Ben Osborn. Thanks as always for listening, and UTB!

A mini-episode as Ben and Andrew discuss a largely uneventful game with Coventry, although United still manage to lose the game via Chris Basham's error. RND joins the injury list, Khadra and Brewster remain conspicuously on the bench, although John Fleck returns to action. We also briefly touch on this weekend's match between two of the most out-of-form sides in the league. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew try to wrap their heads around one of the stupidest Blades games in recent memory as United draw 3-3 with Blackpool: six goals, four red cards, a missed penalty, a 98th-minute equaliser and a whole lot more. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew are not too downbeat about the defeat to Stoke as United's mishmash team come up short - Rhian Brewster's first of the season providing a bright spot, but old favourite Phil Jagielka sticks in the boot (or head). We try to avoid using the "i" word, talk about playing a back four, and look ahead to a now-quite-large game with Blackpool on Saturday. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew try to pick themselves up after a deflating defeat to QPR, as yet more players head off to the injury list and United can't recover from Chris Willock's goal. We try to work out what went wrong, have a few positive thoughts from the first half particularly, and then discuss what might come next as we head to Stoke on Saturday. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew give a quick recap of the Blades' struggling to a humdrum draw against Birmingham, although Oli McBurnie's 5th goal of the season and a return of Jayden Bogle prove to be bright spots in a dull game. Then, some brief thoughts on tomorrow night's game with QPR, and the end of Chris Wilder at Middlesbrough. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew discuss the latest news from the international break, before reviewing what's working and what isn't in United's season so far - what's gone better than expected, and what might be a possible cause for concern the rest of the way? We also preview this weekend's game with Birmingham as the Blades finally return to Bramall Lane after more than a month. Thanks as always for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew talk through the Blades' third consecutive away win as the Blades stay top courtesy of a 2-0 win at Preston North End that means United have now scored more goals at Deepdale than the home side. We discuss the value of United's extra star quality to win tight games, whether Ndiaye is the best player in the Championship (!), Double-hard Sander Berge, and a possible forthcoming conundrum over who should play right-wingback. We'll be back next week, enjoy the international break and thanks for listening - UTB!

Ben and Andrew go through the Blades' latest win, a 1-0 victory at Swansea City, to cement their position at the top of the Championship. An Ahmedhodzic intervention keeps it level before the subs sink the Swans: Rhian Brewster and Reda Khadra providing a moment of quality. There's more praise for perpetual man-of-the-match candidate Rhys Norrington-Davies, Chris Basham playing on the left, and Swansea's slightly puzzling approach. Plus, a look ahead to our trip to Preston this weekend. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew break down United's first away win of the season, as the Blades take down the Tigers on their own patch in a 2-0 victory. Oli McBurnie makes it 3 in 3 before Sander "I'm not f'in leaving" Berge seals the deal. We also discuss the impressive Rhys Norrington-Davies, whether that corner routine needs throwing in the bin, Mark Duffy's punditry, Oliver Arblaster making his debut, and everything else that caught our eye from the win. Finally, we wrap up all the news from transfer deadline day, and preview Rotherham at home this weekend. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben is joined by special guest Hal Stewart of Sheff Utd Way to talk about the resounding 4-0 win over Reading as United continue their perfect home form and go back to the top of the early season table. We discuss the latest in a run of impressive performances from Max Lowe, Oli McBurnie and Rhys Norrington-Davies, the potential ceilings of Ahmedhodzic and Ndiaye, and a solid first start in midfield for Tommy Doyle. Huge thanks to Hal for joining me for this one, and thanks to you for listening. UTB!

Ben and Andrew give a snap reaction to the 1-1 draw with Luton in this episode, as Oli McBurnie finally bags a league goal (and what a goal it was too). United's injury list gets even lengthier meaning Jordan Amissah has to deputise in goal - and does a grand old job for a player who doesn't even have a Wikipedia page yet. Thanks as always for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew discuss the Blades' dismantling of Blackburn Rovers at the weekend, as Heckingbottom's side power to the top of the early Championship table. We get (possibly far too) excited about the potential of the squad as a whole, but particularly Iliman Ndiaye who scored possibly one of the best goals ever seen at Bramall Lane. Praise too for McBurnie, Lowe, Norrington-Davies and quite a few more. Next challenge... can we do it away? Luton are up next, and we preview that game towards the end of the episode. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew discuss the Blades' 2-1 win over Sunderland, as the Black Cats see red and are slightly fortunate to stay at 10 men. We get a little bit excited about the potential of Ahmedhodzic, and have plenty of praise for Max Lowe, cameos from Khadra and McBurnie, and Heckingbottom's use of the bench. Finally, we look ahead to Saturday's game with table-topping Blackburn. Thanks for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew go through the entertaining 2-2 draw at Chris Wilder's Middlesbrough, as Sander Berge and a Ryan Giles own goal twice put the Blades ahead but defensive lapses see the points slip away. We discuss Max Lowe's game of two halves, Brewster's promising cameo, and some questionable use (or non-use) of substitutes... Finally, we finish with a preview of this week's game with Sunderland, talk briefly about the new kits, and Lys Mousset has a Bundesliga club! Thanks as always for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew go through the win over Millwall, Ahmedhodzic's brilliant debut, and more encouraging showings from Ciaran Clark, John Fleck and a few others... although that might be the end of Norwood on penalties for a little while. Plus, we look ahead to the cup game with West Brom, and Boro away on Sunday. Thank you for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew talk through the Blades' opening day defeat to Watford, a spectacular moment of shooting oneself in the foot, and an impressively poor showing from Max Lowe off the bench. But, help may be on the way in the form of new signing James McAtee from Man City, who hopefully will be here in time to face Millwall on Saturday. That's how we finish this week: a look ahead to our first home game of the season, and the latest installment of Jake Cooper's personal mission to ruin United's day. Thank you as always for listening, and UTB!

Our 2022/23 Season Preview Extravaganza is here: Ben and Andrew discuss the arrivals of Reda Khadra and Ciaran Clark, a few players heading out on loan, and the best / worst case scenarios for United this season. Then, predicting who's going up, who's going down, who's going to surprise, who will be United's Player Of The Season, and plenty more. Finally, a look ahead to Watford, and some words on seeing the Women's Euros at Bramall Lane. Thank you as always for listening, and UTB!

Ben and Andrew return to drill into all the latest Blades news, including the signings of Anel Ahmedhodzic and Tommy Doyle, the departure of Oli Burke, the possible arrival of Tom Lawrence and other rumours. Then, we basically tell Hecky what to do in 2022/23 in our section How To Win Promotion: everything that needs to go right / be different from last season, and how achievable we actually think that is... Thank you as always for listening, and UTB!

With 2021-22 in the books, it's time for Ben and Andrew to dish out their marks out of 10 for the entire squad. Does anyone receive a perfect 10? Who's got room for improvement next season, who are we glad to see the back of, and who's got us excited for 2022-23? Find out right here, dear listener... Thank you as always for listening, and UTB! BladesPod is brought to you by NordVPN - the fastest VPN on the planet, letting you stay safe online without slowing you down and giving you secure access to streaming websites and more without censorship. 🌏 Exclusive! Grab the NordVPN deal ➼ nordvpn.com/bladespod Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌

Ben and Andrew reflect on an excellent if gutting night against Nottingham Forest, as United put in a superb performance in overturning the first leg deficit but ultimately fall on penalties to a brilliant goalkeeper and one pesky drinks bottle. In the second half of this episode, we reflect on the Blades career of one of our favourite-ever players, David McGoldrick, whose time at United has drawn to a close. We pick out our top McGoldrick moments from his four years in red and white. Thank you as always for listening, and UTB! BladesPod is brought to you by NordVPN - the fastest VPN on the planet, letting you stay safe online without slowing you down and giving you secure access to streaming websites and more without censorship. 🌏 Exclusive! Grab the NordVPN deal ➼ nordvpn.com/bladespod Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌

Andrew is away so Ben is here with a quick solo pod breaking down the Blades, well, breaking down in the first leg of the playoffs against Nottingham Forest. Contains a few reasons to be cheerful, more than a few reasons to be fearful, and some things that need to happen for us to turn it right around (hope that Forest have a "Leeds 2019" moment in them). Thanks for listening, and UTB! BladesPod is brought to you by NordVPN - the fastest VPN on the planet, letting you stay safe online without slowing you down and giving you secure access to streaming websites and more without censorship. 🌏 Exclusive! Grab the NordVPN deal ➼ nordvpn.com/bladespod Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌

It's the Enda the season... but not for us: United storm into the playoffs with a final day hammering of the Championship's champions, Fulham, and Ben and Andrew break it all down here. A sellout crowd, a buzzing atmosphere, and a dominant display from the Blades as our dynamic front three do the business, John Egan keeps Mitrovic under wraps, and Enda Stevens even pops up with a rare goal. A brilliant day at the Lane, same again on Saturday? It's United v Forest in the playoffs and we get into that as well, plus player of the season awards and a few other odds and ends. Thanks for listening, and UTB! BladesPod is brought to you by NordVPN - the fastest VPN on the planet, letting you stay safe online without slowing you down and giving you secure access to streaming websites and more without censorship. 🌏 Exclusive! Grab the NordVPN deal ➼ nordvpn.com/bladespod Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌

Ben and Andrew are back, and the Blades' playoff destiny is still in their own hands after an impressive second-half comeback at QPR on Friday night. We talk about Iliman Ndiaye's poaching instincts, Jack Robinson's redemption, Billy Sharp's new contract (yay), Billy Sharp's new injury (boo), and every permutation ahead of the final game of the season, at home to Fulham. Oh, and also an update on the proposed takeover of the club. Thanks as always for listening, and UTB! BladesPod is brought to you by NordPass, the new generation password manager where security meets simplicity. Get a special 50% off NordPass at nordpass.com/bladespod or use code bladespod when you sign up - you also get an additional month FREE. Also brought to you by NordVPN - the fastest VPN on the planet, letting you stay safe online without slowing you down and giving you secure access to streaming websites and more without censorship. 🌏 Exclusive! Grab the NordVPN deal ➼ nordvpn.com/bladespod Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌

Ben and Andrew are impressed with some of the Blades' football at Bristol City but ultimately frustrated as United appear to settle for a point when all three might have been, well, more useful for our attempts to make the top six. Morgan Gibbs-White gets his 10th goal, Basham's back, Ndiaye leaves us with heads in hands, and now Cardiff becomes an absolute must-win (probably) in the battle of who-wants-to-finish-higher-than-seventh. Thanks as always for listening, and UTB! BladesPod is brought to you by NordPass, the new generation password manager where security meets simplicity. Get a special 50% off NordPass at nordpass.com/bladespod or use code bladespod when you sign up - you also get an additional month FREE. Also brought to you by NordVPN - the fastest VPN on the planet, letting you stay safe online without slowing you down and giving you secure access to streaming websites and more without censorship. 🌏 Exclusive! Grab the NordVPN deal ➼ nordvpn.com/bladespod Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌

Nothing Good about that Friday, as defeat to Reading leaves United hoping for a miraculous revival of form against Bristol City - Ben and Andrew react to a disastrous performance at home which leaves the Blades with lots (too much?) to do, even as United continue to sit in the top six at the time of recording... Thank you for listening, and here's to a better showing on Monday evening. BladesPod is brought to you by NordPass, the new generation password manager where security meets simplicity. Get a special 50% off NordPass at nordpass.com/bladespod or use code bladespod when you sign up - you also get an additional month FREE. Also brought to you by NordVPN - the fastest VPN on the planet, letting you stay safe online without slowing you down and giving you secure access to streaming websites and more without censorship. 🌏 Exclusive! Grab the NordVPN deal ➼ nordvpn.com/bladespod Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌

Ben and Andrew recap an eventful if goalless game against Bournemouth, with some missed chances, bizarre refereeing, great goalkeeping, hilarious throw-in mishaps, and plenty more. Plus, thoughts on Neil Warnock finally hanging up his tracksuit and confirming his retirement from football (for now...), and a look ahead to our Good Friday game with Reading. Thank you for listening, and UTB! BladesPod is brought to you by NordPass, the new generation password manager where security meets simplicity. Get a special 50% off NordPass at nordpass.com/bladespod or use code bladespod when you sign up - you also get an additional month FREE. Also brought to you by NordVPN - the fastest VPN on the planet, letting you stay safe online without slowing you down and giving you secure access to streaming websites and more without censorship. 🌏 Exclusive! Grab the NordVPN deal ➼ nordvpn.com/bladespod Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌

Ben welcomes back Andrew to discuss United keeping their unbeaten home run going under Heckingbottom with a 1-0 win over QPR, before previewing this weekend's meeting with Bournemouth. Thank you for listening, and UTB! BladesPod is brought to you by NordPass, the new generation password manager where security meets simplicity. Get a special 50% off NordPass at nordpass.com/bladespod or use code bladespod when you sign up - you also get an additional month FREE. Also brought to you by NordVPN - the fastest VPN on the planet, letting you stay safe online without slowing you down and giving you secure access to streaming websites and more without censorship. 🌏 Exclusive! Grab the NordVPN deal ➼ nordvpn.com/bladespod Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌