Sheffield United’s hopes of retaining Aaron Ramsdale’s services were handed a potential boost this week. The Blades’ shot-stopper was named as the club’s Player of the Year despite a difficult season on the field for all concerned at Bramall Lane. Ramsdale’s performance have earned him a spot in Gareth Southgate’s provision 33-man England squad, with the United goalkeeper called in and alongside Sam Johnstone to replace the injured Nick Pope.
Gareth Southgate said: “For Nick, it’s heartbreaking to get an injury so close to a major tournament. He’s been a fantastic member of our squad – a totally unselfish guy. In Russia, he spent hour-after-hour throwing himself around for penalties, which was as important in our penalty shootout success as the guys who took them quite frankly. Because him and Jack Butland were phenomenal in those situations. I’m really disappointed for him, it obviously opens up opportunities for others. Sam and Aaron have finished well with their clubs, Dean is in the battle for the number one spot at Manchester United and Jordan has finished the season really strongly since coming back from injury. His focus and calmness in the goal has really stood out so I’m really pleased with his form.”
Whilst Ramsdale is debatably the most likely of the four goalkeepers to be axed when England name their 26-man party for the Euros, Pope’s injury could benefit Sheffield United. The 29-year-old has been attracting plenty of interest from Premier League admirers, though Burnley insist it would require a hefty offer for them to consider selling the England international.
