“It slightly changes…” – Paul Heckingbottom makes admission after forced Sheffield United selection | OneFootball

Paul Heckingbottom believes Adam Davies can offer Sheffield United something different.

The Sheffield United boss praised his commitment to the team following his debut performance in the 1-0 defeat to Coventry City on Wednesday night.

The Welshman stepped into the role of first choice goalkeeper midweek due to Wes Foderingham receiving a three-game suspension after his red card in the 3-3 draw with Blackpool last weekend.

The 45-year-old has claimed that Davies can offer United a better outlet when playing out from the back due to his ability to accurately ping longer balls compared to Foderingham.

He has also praised the shot-stopper for having a solid game despite the potential nerves of making a first appearance for a new club, highlighting his experience as a huge factor in his ability to smoothly step into the team unexpectedly.

“It slightly changes how we play, having Adam in there, because he can go long,” said Heckingbottom, via The Star.

“That’s something he’s good at and that he brings to the table.

“Adam has got loads of experience. He’s been capped by his country, he’s played for Wales, so it’s not as if he doesn’t know what he’s doing is it.

“Despite all of that, he was making his debut and so we know he will have been feeling it beforehand, because it always feels different.”

“Goalkeepers are no different to outfield players in terms of how they can start things and set up plays.

“Wes’ form had been good and so Adam has been forced to wait.

“He has very little to do in terms of making saves but what he had to deal with, I thought he dealt with it very well.

“He was calm, decisive and assured out there.”

These 18 Sheffield United quiz questions will reveal just how big of a fan you are

1 of 18

When did Sheffield United play their first game at Bramall Lane?

1986 1899 1894 1889

It was a disappointing night for the Blades despite the performance of Davies in place of Foderingham.

Heckingbottom’s side suffered another defeat, which extended their winless run to six league games in a row.

Up next for United is the visit of Norwich City on 22 October.

The Verdict

United have gone from leading the Championship to slipping down to 4th in just a number of weeks which has been disappointing from their perspective.

But the emergence of Davies as credible competition for Foderingham’s position could be a positive from his unnecessary dismissal last weekend.

Heckingbottom highlighting what he brings to the team suggests he may envision him becoming more than a backup.

If he can perform well in these upcoming games with Norwich and West Brom then perhaps he could even stake a claim to become the first choice keeper at Bramall Lane.