A virtual ever-present for Southend United, could Ryan Leonard be an excellent addition to Sheffield United’s squad for next season?
After six seasons mired in League One purgatory, Sheffield United have finally, finally secured their place back in the top two divisions of English football – with four games to spare. A 2-1 win at Northampton Town on Saturday confirmed that The Blades would be a Championship team next season after storming the third tier.
With boyhood fan Chris Wilder living his dream and inspiring a remarkable transformation at Bramall Lane, the 49-year-old will already be laying the foundations for a successful return.
And, according to The Sun, Southend United star Ryan Leonard is at the top of Sheffield United’s list of summer priorities. The 24-year-old is out of contract in the summer and would surely be tempted by the prospect of joining the club nine points clear at the top with one hand and three fingers on the League One title.
Since signing for The Shrimpers in 2011, Leonard has improved by the season, making over 200 league appearances and winning the club’s Player of the Year award in two of the last three seasons.
And although he has never played at a higher level than League One, The Sun reports that the Sheffield United boss has identified Leonard as an ideal addition to a squad hoping to make a splash in the Championship.
The former Plymouth Argyle youngster’s versatility and consistency, he started every league game this season prior to a red card against Oldham, certainly means he is worth a chance in the second tier.
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