Why Sheffield United star is not expected to start with Tottenham after expensive summer move to Blades

SHEFFIELD UNITED will have to field a back-up for midfielder Vinicius Souza if he is to start against Tottenham on Sunday.

The six-figure fee would be due for the 24-year-old Brazilian’s 30th Prem start for the Blades, having signed from Belgians Lommel for £10.5m in August.

But Souza can play as a sub and no fee will be due.

The Brazilian made 35 Premier League appearances in total, with a further two in the FA Cup.

Meanwhile, striker Oli McBurnie, 27, is set for the bench after a swift return from a muscle injury that was expected to end his season.

Sheffield United are set to say goodbye to several members of the club following their clash with Spurs.

Earlier this week they confirmed that Chris Basham, Oliver Norwood, George Baldock, Wes Foderingham and Max Lowe will all leave on free transfers.

The Yorkshire club wrote in a statement: “The Blades can confirm that Chris Basham, George Baldock, Oliver Norwood, Wes Foderingham and Max Lowe will leave the club when their contracts expire this summer.

“The players mentioned above will each embark on new chapters in their careers after this campaign, having helped the Blades to success during their spells at Bramall Lane.

“They share a total of nine promotions in their Blades careers and the club sees fit to release this news before the end of the campaign to allow them to receive appreciation from Unitedites for their contributions.

“With Tottenham Hotspur’s visit on Sunday being United’s final game of the campaign, special thanks will be paid to the five, with further tributes across the club’s digital platforms.

“The five players will leave with our gratitude and appreciation for the contribution they have made to Sheffield United Football Club.

“There will be further news regarding the future of the other current team members in due course.”

Blades bosses are already preparing for life back in the Championship next season.

Chris Wilder’s side are already guaranteed to finish bottom of the Prem after picking up just 16 points from 37 games.