Carl Asaba has now heaped praise on Manchester City loanee James McAtee after Sheffield United suffered a 3-2 defeat to Luton on Boxing Day.
The 50-year-old was speaking on Sheffield United TV.
So, what was said about Manchester City loanee James McAtee? Let’s take a look…
James McAtee praised despite 3-2 defeat
Well, a number of Sheffield United players failed to cover themselves in glory at Bramall Lane on Tuesday, throwing away a 2-1 lead to lose 3-2 against relegation rivals Luton.
Jack Robinson and Anis Ben Slimane – who both scored own goals – fall into that category.
However, McAtee – who was also recently praised by Micah Richards – has emerged from the defeat with credit.
Speaking about the 21-year-old’s performance, Asaba said: “The boys were playing some brilliant intricate football, still creating chances. You know, McAtee, he’s just playing at another level at the moment, causing everyone problems, running from central.
“I thought McAtee, he’s been brilliant the last few games. When the ball is at his feet he’s another level and the desire, for the second goal, he’s trying to throw himself in. This is a creative flair player trying to fling himself in, he’s turning into an all round player.”
The Manchester City loanee managed to grab an assist on Boxing Day – he now has one goal and two assists in 16 Premier League appearances so far this season.
Manchester City are surely pleased
Funnily enough, Pep Guardiola actually wanted to keep McAtee at the Etihad Stadium this season after allowing Cole Palmer to join Chelsea.
However – according to Alan Nixon – the England U21 international personally asked to leave in order to receive regular playing time.
It has undoubtedly been a tough campaign so far as Sheffield United sit bottom of the Premier League on nine points, although sometimes, the most effective loan moves are those which involve plenty of difficult times.
It has been a character building campaign for McAtee, so regardless of whether Sheffield United survive or not, Guardiola will surely be pleased.
