KNIVES OUT? Can Blades Cut Through?
This season’s WSL2 opener was at Bramall Lane, with Sheffield United losing 0-4 to Sunderland. Last season, United survived by the skin of their teeth, with only Blackburn’s withdrawal keeping them in the second tier. Dakota Johnson wonders if they can hang on again and progress.
As the WSL2 gets stronger, staying up is harder than ever and the Blades will hope for a much better season this time around. Given the recent tragedies and controversy that surrounded the club following the tragic death of Maddie Cusack, it’s perhaps no surprise that the team has struggled. But, with their place in the WSL2 confirmed and a long season ahead, the Blades have the perfect chance to turn their fortunes around.
Head Coach: Current head coach is Ash Thompson, who has spent three years in the club’s academy setup. This may prove vital this upcoming season, as United will rely on their young players. Described as having “an excellent technical and tactical understanding of the game” by Sheffield United’s head of women’s football, after a difficult 2024-25 both Thompson and the club will be hoping that some of these ideas will be easier to implement this season.
New Signings: Squad wise, highly rated young Irish forward Joy Ralph has joined the Blades, following a few strong seasons in Ireland. Ralph will be playing professionally for the first time, but as a proven goal scorer for Shamrock Rovers this feels like a strong move for both her and her new club. A regular for Ireland U19s, this may be the push she needs to break through to Ireland’s senior team.
The Blades have also signed 25-year-old Lauren Thomas from Everton, with the winger looking to rediscover her form. This may be key to Sheffield United being able to avoid a relegation battle again, as Thomas brings huge levels of experience to what is a relatively young squad, especially after a stint in the top level. Joining her is Tammi George from Wolves, who has made 150 appearances for them, but will relish a new challenge a level up. George is known to chip in a few goals from midfield, something the Blades lacked last season, even reaching double figures in 2023-24.
Outlook: In terms of outgoings, the Blades have lost a significant number of players following their contracts expiring or them returning to their parent clubs. The biggest loss is perhaps Welsh international Esther Morgan, who despite spending the second half of last season on loan at Sheffield United has now joined WSL2 rivals Bristol City. Also departing is full-back Fallon Connolly-Jackson, who has made the move North to Glasgow Rangers. This may prove to be a big loss long term, as she showed a lot of promise last season and recently earned a place in the Scotland U23s.
Some players have stuck around though; Ella Kinzett who came through Manchester United’s academy has signed a new contract, and is considered a key player by the Blades, even being vice captain at her young age.
After last season’s reprieve, the Blades will hope to stay up on their own merit this time around. With new signings and a coach who will want to prove themselves though, the task should be less of an ask this season.
Whether or not they will be able to compete with the better teams in the league is a different question, but they should be able to avoid the drop with less drama, and hopefully more goals than last season. Ultimately, the WSL2 is harder than ever, but the Blades have signed well, and will know from their struggles last season where they need to improve, and the quality of their opposition.
Will finish: 10th
