Sheffield United: International roundup as a senior impresses

A number of Sheffield United players were involved in international matches last week, but only one of them was on the winning side.

It’s always a busy off-season when there’s a major international tournament on the horizon and this summer was no different. Teams try to prepare before the tournament by holding a few friendlies, while nations not participating in the tournament still schedule friendlies as well.

Last week was a mix of senior friendlies and youth games with some of the Blades players taking part.

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 26: Anel Ahmedhodzic of Sheffield United looks dejected during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Luton Town at Bramall Lane on December 26, 2023 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

One of the players on international duty was Sheffield United back-up goalkeeper Adam Davies, whose future at Bramall Lane is uncertain amid protracted contract negotiations.

Davies, who will soon turn 32, made his Wales debut in the international friendly against Gibraltar. It was his first start for his country since August 2022 and lasted just 45 minutes as he was substituted at half-time for Wolves back-up stopper Tom King. Davies had little to do in his brief appearance, making zero saves and totaling seven touches.

It was far from a majestic performance from Wales as they registered just four shots on goal in Gibraltar. The match ended 0-0. Davies was reportedly relegated to the bench for Wales’ friendly against Slovakia, where they were beaten 4-0.

Will Osula was also involved in a friendly as Denmark U21s faced Norway U21s in a 3-3 draw. The 20-year-old had a brace in the first half, with the goals separated by four minutes.

Another young Blade who was involved in international service was Sam Curtis. The 18-year-old grabbed a brace for Ireland U21s as they secured a 3-2 win over Croatia U21s.

Ireland U21s are next in action on Tuesday when they host England U20s.

Anel Ahmedhodzic played in both of Bosnia’s friendlies. First against England where the 25-year-old put in a very good performance before being substituted in the 82nd minute. Bosnia would then fall apart at the back, conceding two late goals to lose 3-0.

Their second friendly came against Italy and despite a 1-0 defeat, Ahmedhodzic’s stock will surely have risen after two very strong performances at the back. Against Italy, the Sheffield United defender recorded a 100% win rate in aerial duels and ground duels, in addition to three tackles won. Ahmedhodzic completed 88% of his passes, including five out of seven long balls, he also had the opportunity to get on the scoresheet.

There will be plenty of transfer rumors surrounding Anel Ahmedhodzic in the coming weeks as the Blades could sell him after being relegated back to the Championship. A few good performances on the international stage will certainly do him no harm. The Bosnia international reportedly has a £17m release clause written into his contract, which has just two years left.

According to Transfermarkt, Malmo will be entitled to 13% of any future sales that exceed €4.5 million.