Former Nottingham Forest players Billy Sharp and Kieran Dowell have impressed at Sheffield United this season.
They racked up a combined total of 83 appearances for the Reds, having both only remained at the City Ground for one season. Despite the fact they both made an impression, they moved on to pastures new at the end of their loan spells.
With the benefit of hindsight, it’s difficult to understand why the club didn’t seem to seriously consider making their deals permanent.
They have both played a part in Sheffield United’s push for automatic promotion this season. Sharp in particular has been instrumental, scoring 22 goals in the Championship so far. Only Norwich City’s Teemu Pukki has scored more.
As for Dowell, he only joined the Blades on loan from Everton last month. He’s already made eight appearances for Chris Wilder’s side, although only three of those have been starts. In those games, the 21-year-old has been able to showcase the quality he possesses.
The one that got away
In Sharp’s case, it’s extremely difficult to fathom why the club didn’t look to sign the striker on a permanent deal. He joined Sean O’Driscoll’s side on loan for the 2012/13 campaign. The 33-year-old striker managed to score 11 goals in 40 games for the Reds, which saw him finish the season as the club’s top scorer.
Who knows how many goals he would’ve gone on to score had he remained at the City Ground. He’s gone on to score another 99 goals in all competitions since he left the Reds. The most frustrating aspect is that at the time, Sharp wouldn’t have cost too much either.
There’s no doubt that his return to Sheffield United gave him a new lease of life. He scored 13 league goals on their return to the Championship last season and he’s gone one step further this campaign. His relationship with Chris Wilder is a key reason behind this.
Considering Forest’s struggles in the striker department over recent years, Sharp would’ve provided the answer. His link-up play with Dexter Blackstock in the memorable 4-2 Boxing Day win over Leeds United sticks in the memory. He’s certainly one that got away.
A wand of a left foot
In comparison to Sharp, Dowell’s record at the City Ground was fairly similar. He racked up 43 appearances in all competitions for the Reds, scoring 10 goals. His quality was there for all to see but he fell out of favour following Aitor Karanka’s arrival at the club.
He’s recently spoken in Sheffield United’s matchday programme about his time with the Reds. As it was his first taste of regular first team football, he feels it has allowed him to get off to a good start at Bramall Lane.
He said: “I enjoyed my time at Forest. I started off the bench, but gradually clocked up the games and score quite a few goals. It has certainly helped me though.
“When I came here I knew what the division was about, which has meant I’ve been able to focus on learning how this team plays and not worry too much about who we’re playing against.
“We’re a confident bunch, without being arrogant, and it certainly aids my natural game.”
The Reds would’ve always struggled to strike a permanent deal for Dowell. He is still highly regarded by Everton. However, they may have had a chance to re-sign him on loan last month, had they seriously rivalled the Blades for his signature.
Whether or not he fits into the Martin O’Neill’s current regime is a different matter. The Northern Irishman seems to prefer physical players, a category which Dowell doesn’t really fall into. He is a similar player to João Carvalho, which suggests he’d struggle to get into the team at present.
There’s no doubt over Dowell’s quality though. He’d be welcomed back at the City Ground with open arms by many if the opportunity does ever arise.
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