Paul Heckingbottom sends his Sheffield United team warning ahead of Birmingham City clash | OneFootball

Despite missing out on promotion via the play-offs last season, Paul Heckingbottom’s Sheffield United have come out in strong form this year.

The Blades currently sit at the top of the table, three points clear having won seven of their opening ten games this season.

This weekend they will no doubt be keen to continue that form as they welcome Birmingham City to Bramall Lane.

Although the Blues haven’t had a poor start to the season, on paper this is a game United should be winning.

However, Paul Heckingbottom is keen for his side to give the game the respect its deserve and make sure no one gets ahead of themselves as he told The Star: “It doesn’t matter how many [points] we’ve got now. It’s all about how many points we’ve got at the end of the season. That’s the only thing I’m really bothered about.

“Yes, we’re delighted with that start the lads have made. Of course we are. Does it guarantee anything, though? No. It doesn’t. Not a thing, because nothing is ever decided in September of October.

“It’s all about making sure you’re where you want to be at the end. I know people will sigh at that. But it’s true. That’s when it matters. That’s when prizes or whatever get handed out.”

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The Verdict:

Whilst Sheffield United deserve to celebrate their success so far this season, Heckingbottom’s attitude is the right one and that mindset should serve his side well in the long run this season.

Although the Blades have had an ideal start to the campaign, there is still plenty of time to go and therefore the team have to make sure they’re putting the same effort into every game and every performance.

They are a side that have shown their quality so far and will no doubt be eager to go out and do the same this weekend.

However, it’s important to keep their expectations in line and not get ahead of themselves in order to make sure they work hard to achieve their aims this season.