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Sheffield United defender speaks out about players playing for their future amid contract dilemma

Originally posted on Sheff United Way | By Jake Staniland | Last updated 4/9/24

Since Chris Wilder came back to Sheffield United there has been an uptick in individual performances from a few players. And arguably the most improved player through the season is Blades right-back Jayden Bogle.

The 23-year-old went from struggling to defend under Paul Heckingbottom to being aggressive in every duel under Wilder. Sheffield United fans have always said the same thing about Jayden Bogle: he’s good going forward, but he can’t defend. Well, he’s certainly trying to change that.

Last Sunday, Bogle put in a strong display against Chelsea. He was solid defensively and he even found himself on the scoresheet for the second time in the league this season when he latched onto a sublime pass from Gustavo Hamer and smashed the ball home at Petrovic’s near post.

United’s number 20 spoke to The Star after the draw against Chelsea at Bramall Lane:

“The feeling and the support we’ve had. Even when we’ve struggled this season the fans have been very good. Every player in the dressing room is taking it game by game; no-one’s looking towards the end of the season and the summer yet. We’re focusing on what we need to do to stay up, not anything else.”

Bogle is one of several Sheffield United players out of contract in the summer and he admitted that he and his teammates are playing for their future.

“Everyone has to play for their careers and do what they can for the team. You’ve got to go out and perform. We haven’t done that at some times this season but we’ve got to attack the remaining games and give it all we’ve got.”

Over the past few years the Blades have had the luxury of having two good options to play in the right-wingback role, with Bogle being the better attacking threat and George Baldock being the better defender. But unfortunately that luxury has been taken away for most of this difficult Premier League campaign due to the Greek international’s injury troubles.

One thing is for sure, with United not having Baldock on hand it has forced Bogle to step up. This is testament to his character. For much of the season the 23-year-old hasn’t really had someone to compete for his position in the starting eleven, so he could’ve put in half hearted performances. And it’s actually had the reverse effect on him.

The Blades must extend Bogle and Baldock

As things stand the only senior right-back the Blades have under contract next summer is academy product Femi Seriki, who is currently out on loan at Rotherham United.

Sheffield United must strike up a contract extension for both Jayden Bogle and George Baldock as the duo have proven they’re formidable in the Championship, which is where the club is heading after a poor Premier League campaign.

This article first appeared on Sheff United Way and was syndicated with permission.

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