Gustavo Hamer: Sheffield United's Secret Weapon to Emerge Victorious

Sheffield United's return to the Premier League has been plagued by a lack of wins, but there have been standout moments worth highlighting. Gustavo Hamer, signed for £15m from Coventry, has been a source of reassurance that the team has the potential to remain in the top flight.

Hamer showcased his talent with a remarkable goal in his Premier League debut against Nottingham Forest, displayed immense dedication in a close loss to Manchester City, and played a crucial role at home against Everton by setting up Cameron Archer for the second goal with an incredible pass.

Hard work and quality will undoubtedly be crucial for Sheffield United, and Hamer has displayed both traits abundantly. The Dutchman, who was born in Brazil, also brings a strong sense of personality to his game, a characteristic that caught the attention of Blades manager Paul Heckingbottom years ago. Heckingbottom vividly remembers watching one of Hamer's early games for Coventry alongside a colleague, and immediately expressing his desire to work with the talented player. Hamer's tenacity, relentless energy, fearlessness in taking risks with the ball, and ability to create opportunities are all qualities that impressed Heckingbottom.

The pass to Archer was exceptional, showcasing his ability to create opportunities. While it may not be recorded as his first assist in a Sheffield United jersey due to the goal being an own goal off Jordan Pickford, it still highlighted his vision. This creative capacity will be vital for a team that is rebuilding their attack and adapting to a higher level after selling their star player, Iliman Ndiaye. Although Hamer takes risks and occasionally loses possession in deeper areas, he should not be deterred.

Heckingbottom stresses the importance of a fearless team dynamic, expressing, "I don't want any fear within the team. It doesn't concern me if we occasionally give the ball away. What concerns me is when someone doesn't show the desire to engage with the ball. If you lack the willingness to go for the ball, then you become a problem for us.

"We cannot allow our fear of making mistakes to prevent us from engaging with the ball. Nor should we let the fear of missing an opportunity keep us from making runs into the back post. It simply isn't an option. In order to have any chance of competing, we must play without fear."

Hamer's clapping of his dedicated fans during corners seems to have a negative impact on his delivery, according to his manager Mark Robins at Coventry. Robins humorously suggested that Hamer's focus on applause is diverting him from effectively putting the ball into the box. Robins added that Hamer seemingly enjoys the admiration from supporters. However, his current team requires a similar level of support and enthusiasm.

A player who seeks to command the spotlight on the grandest platform.

"We have unfortunately bid farewell to a couple of prominent players, individuals with imposing personas," expresses Heckingbottom. "Consequently, it was crucial for us to find suitable replacements who possess both stature and charisma. Our focus was on recruiting individuals with strong character, exceptional Premier League caliber, and impressive athleticism."

Hamer's athleticism was truly remarkable, even during the latter stages of the match against Everton. He continued to perform his defensive duties excellently, blocking a shot from Dwight McNeil in the game's 96th minute and recovering possession once again in the 97th minute. This display was particularly impressive considering the effort he had already exerted off the ball.

Hamer's game in the first three Premier League matches has showcased a noticeable effort. One memorable moment was during the game against Manchester City, where he actively participated in attacks and swiftly returned to his position with determined sprinting. According to data, Hamer has consistently recorded an average of 11.44 sprinting pressures per 90 minutes in the Premier League this season. A sprinting pressure refers to the act of closing down an opponent at a sustained speed of 25 kilometres per hour or higher.

Hamer is excelling in the Premier League when it comes to pressuring opponents with his quick sprints. His sustained maximum speed while pressing ranks as the fifth highest among all players. His frequent and speedy closing down of opponents adds the much-needed intensity to his team.

"He will compete, he will tackle, he will run back," expresses Heckingbottom. "Individuals with such characteristics are incredibly inspiring." Undoubtedly, this is what the manager anticipates. "By having individuals like that, you are essentially conveying that message to others, right?"

Hamer's enthusiasm enables him to excel in various positions on the field. During the match against Forest, he scored a goal from the left side of the penalty box. In the game against Everton, he skillfully delivered a cross from the right wing, leading to Oli McBurnie's equalizer.

His manager emphasizes the importance of flexibility and discipline. "While adhering to our strategic framework, Hamer must fully understand his role, according to our tactical approach and the formation used by our opponents. We will consistently emphasize this to him. Our expectations are for absolute clarity," the manager explains.

The role is expected to change. "Depending on our midfield formation, he could be one of the central midfielders or defensive midfielders, or even the attacking midfielder. He has the ability to adapt."

Regardless of his position on the field, it is evident that Hamer's performance will greatly impact Sheffield United's chances. "I don't want to limit his potential and restrict him during games," Heckingbottom concludes.

"When we have the ball, he can do what he wants."