Just a few weeks ago, Sheffield United looked eager to make a late push for a play-off position, however now they currently sit in 17th place in the Championship, 15 points off of the play-offs.
The Blades are also winless in their last six, with their last victory being against Queens Park Rangers in February.
But why have Chris Wilder’s men fallen off so drastically, and is it possible for them to turn it around?
What appears to be the greatest concern for Sheffield United is their inability to hold on to leads in games.
In their past six games, the Blades have been leading in four of them before dropping points.
This was made abundantly clear against Swansea City, where the Blades were leading on two occasions, before ultimately drawing 3-3 to the Welsh club.
In these four games, the Blades have dropped ten points from winning positions, which, had they held on to their lead, would put them in 9th.
One reasons the Blades may be struggling to hold on to leads is because of how long it takes Chris Wilder to make tactical and personnel changes.
For example, against Wrexham, it took until the 65th minute for Chris Wilder to make a substitution, and United had already lost their lead of the game by that point.
There seems to be a lack of urgency for adaptations during games from Wilder, and this may be costing the Blades.
Sheffield United have been without Michael Cooper since February, and his absence has coincided with their downfall.
Since being ruled out for the rest of the season due to injury, the Blades have won just one game.
Some critics have called for Wilder to find a replacement for Adam Davies in goal.
While it’s impossible to say for sure if the Blades would’ve picked up more points with Cooper in net, it’s safe to say his absence is greatly felt at Bramall Lane.
While it’s almost impossible for the Blades to achieve a play-off position as it would require Southampton losing every game, their poor form can still be turned around.
While the Blades don’t have the easiest run to the end of the season, it certainly could be harder.
Games against the likes of Preston North End and Blackburn Rovers will be seen as must-win for United.
However, even if the Blades do remain in their current position come the end of the season, it would still be a massive improvement on the start of the season under Ruben Selles.
