Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder has thrown shade at former Motherwell defender Ben Heneghan and other Bramall Lane outcasts.
The centre-half was brilliant for the Steelmen, earning a move to the Blades with his impressive form. He’s never been able to hold down a place in their senior side though.
Heneghan had a loan spell at Blackpool last term. (Photo by Kevin Barnes – CameraSport via Getty Images)
He was transfer listed following the club’s promotion to the Premier League. Heneghan is still at the club, despite impressing out on loan at Blackpool last term.
Now Wilder has sent a warning to Heneghan and all those still on the transfer list at Bramall Lane.
Blades boss Wilder told The Mirror: “The lads have got to decide what they want to do. I’d rather be a footballer. I’m not saying they should walk away with nothing, but I’d rather be a footballer and get on with it.
Wilder has been critical of Heneghan and other transfer listed players. (Photo by Robin Jones – AFC Bournemouth/AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images)
“It’s up to them. I know, if I was a couple of them, that I’d have been at a new club already. I won’t name names, but they should maybe think about their career, rather than sticking something in their back pockets.”
“It annoys me immensely, because I’ve looked after a couple of them.”
Sheffield United defender Heneghan would fit an SPFL club well
One thing that was never in question with Heneghan at Fir Park was his attitude. He always gave 110%, so if he is just sitting around to pick up a cheque, it represents a change in his aspirations.
In some ways he can’t be blamed for not leaving. The Blades are obviously paying him well. Why would he want to leave, pick up less, and do much more work elsewhere?
Can he blamed for seemingly cashing in? (Photo by Kevin Barnes – CameraSport via Getty Images)
If he has any footballing aspirations though he’ll eventually depart the club. Heneghan is a great central defender and would fit in well at some SPFL clubs.
It sounds like Sheffield United just want shot of him, so they’d perhaps be willing to take next to nothing for the centre-back.
He’ll also have to accept a wage cut is coming wherever he goes, now that the Championship transfer window is shut.
It’ll be a drop to League One at least for Sheffield United defender Heneghan. (Photo by Andrew Kearns – CameraSport via Getty Images)
Former side Motherwell could be doing with him. Questions linger over Charles Dunne’s ability and Stephen Robinson doesn’t seem to fancy Peter Hartley anymore.
Aberdeen are in need of a strong centre-half to help beef up Derek McInnes’ defensive options. Heneghan is proven quality at this level and would likely be within the Dons’ price range.
Heneghan should have no shortage of suitors. Sheffield United may no longer want him, but an SPFL side would be making a great move by acquiring his services.