Sheffield United manager Paul Heckingbottom has pinpointed Manchester City loanee James McAtee's ability on the ball as the key reason for signing him in the summer.
The attacking midfielder is spending the season on loan at Bramall Lane as the Blades try to return to the Premier League. McAtee has admitted that he struggled at first when he moved to Sheffield.
Following a poor performance against Luton Town in August, the 20-year-old had to work hard to work his way into Heckingbottom's plans. Since October, McAtee has become a regular feature once again and he scored only the second goal of his loan spell on Boxing Day as the Blades beat Coventry City 3-1.
ALSO READ: City fans react as youngsters star on loan
Speaking after the game to Sheffield United TV, United's manager provided an update on the Salford-born midfielder's progress so far. "I think he is feeling more and more comfortable," he said.
"Certainly got better without the ball but that is not why we brought him. He needs to be good without the ball because we cannot carry anyone, but I think where he is standing now with his ability on the ball and everyone can see why we fought so hard to bring him here.
"His one vs one moments, his ability to receive the ball under pressure, he is a good player and he is beginning to show that." His fellow City teammate Tommy Doyle has also moved to Sheffield and has settled better since leaving the Etihad temporarily.
The 21-year-old also managed to get himself on the scoresheet on Monday. Sheffield United moved level on points with top-of-the-table Burnley following the victory at Bramall Lane but the Clarets, who are managed by City legend Vincent Kompany, have a game in hand.
READ NEXT:
