Life has been pretty tough for Rhian Brewster since his departure from Liverpool.
The Liverpool academy product was a popular figure on Merseyside, but things haven’t gone to plan at Sheffield United.
Joe Cole told BT Sport during their live coverage of Sheffield United’s 1-0 win against Aston Villa on Wednesday night that Brewster ‘owes’ his manager Chris Wilder.
When those from Bramall lane paid Liverpool £24 million (BBC Sport) for the 20-year-old’s services, they were expecting excitement and goals up top.
And whilst that deal is proving to be a masterstroke from Liverpool transfer guru Michael Edwards, it’s not looking good on the young kid and Sheffield United, who is yet to get off the mark in his new colours.
Former England midfielder Cole made it clear that Brewster needs to show ‘maturity’ now and start proving why he is a ‘talented’ player.
“There is a lot of it (ability),” said Cole. “Now, it’s maturity. He needs to step up. He owes the manager. They bought him for big money.
“It might not be the right time. But get him playing, get his confidence up and build him up because he’s clearly a talented player and he owes the manager one.”
Whilst Brewster didn’t get on the scoresheet last night, he put in quite a shift for his team as they secured a surprise 1-0 win against European-chasing Villa.
Brewster started the match and was taken off in the second half by Wilder, as he has to show some promise during these final few months as Sheffield United plan for a return to the Championship.
One thing that cannot happen is for the speedster to continue his slump in England’s second-tier because then this deal will prove to be a real disaster if it isn’t already.
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