Heckingbottom at the bottom: Premier League's worst team has finally decided to sack their coach
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Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 04.12.23. | 13:00
The Blades will become the first EPL club to change managers
The manager of Sheffield United, Paul Heckingbottom, recently marked his two-year anniversary in charge of the team, achieving notable successes like guiding them to the Championship play-offs and subsequent promotion. However, the ongoing Premier League season has been challenging, with the team securing only five points from their initial 14 games. The recent 5-0 defeat to Burnley placed the Bladed at the bottom of the table and placed the coach out of work.
Paul Heckingbottom is set to be sacked as Sheffield United manager âš½#BBCFootball pic.twitter.com/91cwKaywlo
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) December 4, 2023
Heckingbottom's position has been under scrutiny, especially following awful performances in recent matches against fellow relegation-threatened sides. Speculation about former manager Chris Wilder's potential return to Bramall Lane has circulated, with reports suggesting he might be approached for the managerial post. Wilder notably led the team from League One to a commendable ninth-place finish in the Premier League before his departure midway through the subsequent season, which ultimately ended in relegation. Phil Jagielka, former player under Wilder, retired recently and could potentially join the coaching staff.
Heckingbottom initially served as caretaker manager following Wilder's departure, later assuming the role permanently after Slavisa Jokanovic's dismissal. Despite challenges, he guided the team to a play-off semi-final and secured automatic promotion in subsequent seasons, overcoming financial constraints imposed by a previous stint in the Premier League.
Chris Wilder is set to replace Paul Heckingbottom as Sheffield United manager. The 56 year old is ready to take over until the end of the season.
— The Bladesman (@The_Bladesman) December 4, 2023
[sun]#twitterblades #sufc pic.twitter.com/RsmxY1NSzC
Financial limitations have hindered squad upgrades, impacting the team's performance this season. The club's owner, Prince Abdullah, has been seeking a sale throughout Heckingbottom's tenure. Following an 8-0 home defeat to Newcastle United in September, Heckingbottom has faced increasing pressure.
Sheffield United faces Liverpool and Brentford in upcoming Premier League fixtures. With former managers Stuart McCall, Jack Lester, and Mark Hudson supporting Heckingbottom, the club has potential caretaker options should the need arise.
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