Jack O’Connell 2019/20 – scout report

Expectations for Sheffield United were high after earning promotion back to the Premier League for the first time since the 2006/07 season, based on their interesting tactical approach, and strong summer signings. However, no one expected them to be as good as they have been. They currently sit in 5th place in the Premier League and have entertained Premier League fans all season with their style of play, and mentality. Chris Wilder, who would likely win Manager of the Season if Jürgen Klopps Liverpool were not achieving what they are this season, has been able to take a group of players and build a team that excels both in attack, and defence, as well as transitions.

Several of Sheffield Uniteds players have been praised for their performances this season, but one that has gone slightly under the radar, despite being incredibly consistent at a high level is Jack OConnell. The twenty-five-year-old has been a regular starter in Sheffield Uniteds back three/five this season, and his performances have impressed. This tactical analysis will look at Sheffield Uniteds tactics, and how OConnell fits into Wilders plans. This analysis will look at OConnells defensive and offensive duties, as well as a comparison between OConnell and his defensive teammates, and analyzing what he brings to the table, that others might not excel as much in.

Defensive Strengths

Positioning

To be an overlapping centre-back in Sheffield Uniteds system, a certain level of discipline is needed, as the player cannot get too caught up in going forward, and then neglect his defensive duties. OConnells defensive positioning allows him to have the right balance of going forward and defending.

OConnell is fast, especially for a centre-back; what hell often do is use this speed to catch up to an attacker when Sheffield United are transitioning from attack to defence. However, the unique aspect about OConnell is that he is just as aware of the attackers without the ball, and he positions himself in a way to ensure that both attackers (the ball carrier, and his teammate) are not a threat. This makes it extremely difficult for the opposition, even in a 2vs1 situation.

Covering Depth

Another aspect of OConnells defensive game that relies on his speed his covering depth. Again, Sheffield United are susceptible to counter-attacks because of how open the play. OConnell is able to use the extra space as an advantage though, often attempting to corner the opposition player in a space where he cannot do much to further the attack.

Attacking Strengths

Despite being a centre-back, OConnell provides some great attacking support for Sheffield United, and that is because of the way the team play. Wilders philosophy is all about using overlapping centre-backs rather than the more common overlapping full-backs. More often than not, the left centre-back and the right centre-back will overlap forward, while the middle centre-back will sit deeper to defend. The two full-backs will usually situate themselves in the space between.