Sheffield United v Barnsley: Blades boss delighted with victory after challenges thrown at his side

United have faced an unforgiving fixture schedule after a spate of postponements over the Christmas period, and have also had to compete with an ever-rising list of injuries that has constantly threatened their play-off push.

Billy Sharp was added to the rising list of injury concerns when he limped off during the Blades’ 2-0 win over Barnsley, with boss Heckingbottom admitting he is “anxious” about Sharp’s fitness ahead of a scan on his hamstring.

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But the former Reds defender and manager admitted: “I’m delighted in the end.

“It’s been a long slog for a long period of time and with the effort the lads have put in, and the things niggling at me, like teams cancelling on us and the injuries, I think it’s right we sign off with victory.

“The players need a lot of credit. We’ve had players putting themselves forward to be on the bench when not fit. Playing out of position, playing every week.

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“There’s always been a big moment, be it a goal from Bill or a bit of magic from Morgan or a big save from Wes. It’s fitting we sign off with a win and get ready for the last six games.”

United were below-par in the first half against an impressive Barnsley side, but second-half goals from Sander Berge and Morgan Gibbs-White saw United get themselves back into the play-offs ahead of the day’s 3pm games.

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