The Blades went into last night’s game knowing that securing three points against fellow promotion-chasers West Brom would see their return to the top flight after two years in the Championship.
Nearly 18 months ago United were languishing near the bottom of the Championship table. We take a look at how far they have come and what last night’s victory now means for the club.
The Game
United won 2-0 against West Brom, securing promotion to the Premier League, for the second time in four years.
Both goals were scored during the second half, the first being by Sander Berge. Anel Ahmedhozic sealed the victory by scoring with just under 15 minutes to play.
Henry Gargan, 20, a steward at the game said: “The atmosphere was amazing the whole stadium was stood up and chanting together.
“For both goals the crowd went mental, and everyone was jumping up and down.”
More than 30,000 fans gathered at Bramhall Lane to watch the promotion, after two seasons in the Championship.
The Season
Overall, The Blades have played very consistently to get to their current position. One of their most significant games being against Luton Town on 26 August 2022. Although they drew on this game, the goal from their top striker Olie McBurnie proved their confidence and authority.
Sheffield United legend Tony Currie said: “It’s all been down to hard work really and its been quite consistent. We’ve had a lot of injuries; we’ve had suspensions but its all down to teamwork and a very strong squad.”
Another defining game for the Blades was their win against Cardiff in November 2022, their final outing prior to the world cup. Despite half of Heckingbottom’s squad being unavailable due to injuries they still managed to beat the opposition.
The Role of Heckingbottom
Since becoming club captain in 2021 and taking over from Slavisa Jokanovic, Paul Heckingbottom as turned the club around, bringing in players such as Ahmedhozic and loaned in Manchester City’s Tommy Doyle and James McAtee.
He has been able to lead the club all the way to the FA Cup semi-finals despite facing challenges like training issues due to bad weather.
The win last night, was Heckingbottom’s 46th win out of 80, in which he has been in charge, with only 19 losses.
Why the win is so significant for Sheffield
Overall, this win has not only brought Blades’ fans together but will also bring the wider football community to Sheffield to watch their favourite clubs play at Bramhall lane.
Mr Currie said: “It’s the best league in the world to be in and it means everything to the club that’s stepped in in history and it deserves premier league football.”
