Jack O’Connell: Sheffield United star ‘like a new signing’ after update this week – Kenny
Jack O’Connell will be like a new signing when he makes his long-awaited return for Sheffield United.
That’s according to former Blades stopper Paddy Kenny, speaking exclusively to Football Insider after an update in the defender’s health.
On Thursday (17 February), Paul Heckingbottom provided an update on O’Connell.
As quoted by The Star, the Blades boss admitted the defender has no plans to retire and is working towards a return.
O’Connell’s last outing for the Blades came on 21 September 2020 in a Premier League loss to Aston Villa.
“He’s had a really bad thing happen and it’s taking a long time to recover,” Kenny told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
“He did so well in the Premier League and he’s still only 27-years-old.
“If he can make a full recovery and Sheffield United stand by him then I’m sure he can come back and play a big part for us.
“He will be like a new signing in a way. He was so good in the Premier League and I do think we have missed him this season.
“Whether he can get back to those heights is something we will have to wait and see.
“I just hope he makes a full recovery.”
O’Connell underwent knee surgery in an effort to cure an issue that had blighted him throughout his professional career.
He has made 177 appearances for the Blades to date.
In other news, Paddy Kenny issues Sheffield United automatic promotion verdict after what he’s seen in person.