The loanees from Manchester City were not named to the squad for the 5-2 victory over Burnley.
Manchester City duo James McAtee and Tommy Doyle were left out of Sheffield United’s squad for the win over Burnley, according to manager Paul Heckingbottom.
This summer, City sanctioned loan deals for both McAtee and Doyle as Pep Guardiola seeks to provide the pair with valuable first-team experience away from the club. The Blades currently sit third in the Championship, thanks in large part to the impact of the young duo.
Former City defender Vincent Kompany saw his Burnely side lose 5-2 to the Blades on Saturday, but the City pair, who have proven so valuable to their loan side, took no part in the thrilling game. Heckingbottom provided an update on the duo who were both battling to be fit ahead of the match.
The Sheffield manager revealed that McAtee, who picked up a knock against Bristol City on Tuesday, was eager to play despite his injury.
He said: “We had Macca [McAtee] on the bench yesterday because it [his injury] was settling down day by day. We all saw the tackle and his knee swelled up. He was sore Wednesday, and a little bit better Thursday, he got on the grass on Friday and was better again. He put himself forward but it was my call, in the end, to say no. He should be all right for Tuesday.”
Doyle was also absent, but despite missing the club’s last two matches, Heckingbottom insisted it was not a serious injury.
He said: “We knew from the West Brom game he finished the game, so it’s not a significant injury, just a little bit of damage to his calf.”
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