Midfielder of the Season: Sheffield United’s John Fleck

No flak for Fleck – thestar.co.uk

Baring an extraordinary change in events, Sheffield United are surely bound for the Championship. When they get there, many say their biggest asset will be local lad Billy Sharp, who has scored a remarkable 26 goals in 38 games.

As deserving as Sharp is of such praise, The Football Lab argues that the pick of a brilliant Blades bunch is John Fleck. The midfielder is strong in the tackle, varied in his passing, competent in his forward running and powerful in his shooting.

The latter is not quite backed up statistically, with a seasonal goal return of just two. His firm shots however have led to ricochets for others to gobble up or corners – which have helped defenders Ethan Ebanks-Landell and Jack O’Connell net eight between them.

It can be difficult to find a player with both the technical ability Fleck has, as well as the willingness to do the simple things well. The 25-year-old does a lot of tracking back, reading danger and cutting out opposition attacks.

He makes himself available for passes by finding space in tight areas, then is always composed in possession. He knows when to pick one of his trademark ‘Hollywood’ balls and when to play a simpler pass that creates space and sustains pressure. In essence, Fleck is one of the most complete footballers outside the top flight.