Should Selles Be Replaced by Wilder? Aaron McLean's Key EFL Insights

This weekend's EFL action highlighted the ongoing struggles of Sheffield United under manager Ruben Selles, with the team losing all five of their Championship matches so far. Amidst growing speculation about a managerial change, Aaron McLean reflects on key takeaways from the weekend's fixtures across the Championship, League One, and League Two.

Last updated: 10 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from the EFL Weekend

• Sheffield United's poor start raises questions about Ruben Selles' future.
• Stoke City shows promise under Mark Robins, currently sitting second in the Championship.
• Conor Hourihane's Barnsley is making waves in League One with attacking football.
• Plymouth Argyle begins to turn their season around under Tom Cleverley.
• Peterborough United secures a vital win, albeit still at the bottom of League One.

Sheffield United's Troubling Start

Sheffield United's recent 5-0 defeat to Ipswich Town has sent shockwaves through the Championship. Selles' side is currently bottom of the league, having scored just one goal while conceding 12 in their opening five matches. The alarming performance has raised questions about whether Selles, who took over from Chris Wilder in the summer, can turn the tide.

Aaron McLean, a former striker and current EFL pundit, expressed his concerns, stating, "It's not only the results, but it's the performance as well." He highlighted the team's lack of confidence and the urgent need for a change in management, suggesting that Wilder's return might be the solution given his previous success with the club. "Five games in, it's still salvageable. Seven, eight, nine, ten games in, it's not," McLean warned.

Stoke City: A Renewed Challenge

In contrast to Sheffield United's struggles, Stoke City is enjoying a strong start to the season. With four wins out of five matches, the Potters currently sit second in the Championship following their 1-0 victory over Birmingham City. Under the guidance of manager Mark Robins, Stoke appears to be on the right track to mount a title challenge for the first time in years.

McLean believes that Robins has the potential to lead Stoke to promotion, praising his track record at Coventry City. "I think for the first time in a long time they can really have a good go at it," he added, urging caution while acknowledging the promising beginnings of the season.

Barnsley: Rising Stars Under Hourihane

In League One, Barnsley is making headlines with their impressive performances, currently sitting third after a 3-2 victory over Reading. Conor Hourihane, at just 34 years old, is one of the youngest managers in the EFL but has brought a wealth of playing experience to the role. His side has scored 14 goals in seven matches, showcasing an attacking style of play that has caught the attention of fans and pundits alike.

McLean remarked on the unexpected rise of Barnsley this season, crediting Hourihane's footballing knowledge and commitment to developing young talent. "They want to dominate possession... they're more than prepared to mix it a little bit," he noted, indicating a versatile approach that could see them compete for promotion.

Plymouth Argyle: Signs of Recovery

Plymouth Argyle has also started to show signs of improvement after a shaky start to the season. Under new manager Tom Cleverley, the team secured a thrilling 3-2 victory against Luton Town, even while playing with ten men for most of the second half. This win could signify a turning point for the Pilgrims, who had lost five of their first six games.

McLean highlighted Cleverley's relentless preparation and attention to detail as key factors in the team's revival. "It's as if he's just rolled up his sleeves and said 'right, let's make the best of it'," he said, emphasizing the positive mindset that Cleverley has instilled in his squad.

Peterborough United: A Crucial Win

Peterborough United finally broke their winless streak with a 2-1 victory over Wycombe Wanderers, though they remain at the bottom of League One. Having started the season with just one point from their first seven games, this win is a vital step towards recovery. However, they still face an uphill battle to climb the league table.

McLean reflected on the challenges facing the club, especially after losing key players over the past few seasons. "To lose a couple would've hampered them, but to lose all of them was always going to be difficult," he noted. The team’s strategy of nurturing young talent continues, but McLean believes that a mid-table finish would be a successful outcome this season.

The Road Ahead

The EFL season is just beginning, and while some teams are finding their footing, others are grappling with early-season difficulties. Sheffield United's position is precarious, and the rumblings of managerial change could soon become reality if results do not improve. Meanwhile, clubs like Stoke City and Barnsley are making strong statements about their ambitions for the season.

As the matches continue, fans and pundits alike will be eagerly watching to see how these narratives unfold. Will Sheffield United turn their fortunes around, or will a managerial change be on the horizon? Can Stoke City maintain their momentum, and will Barnsley continue their rise? The answers will come as the season progresses.

FAQs

What is the current position of Sheffield United in the Championship?

Sheffield United is currently at the bottom of the Championship table, having lost all five of their matches so far this season.

Who is the manager of Sheffield United?

Ruben Selles is the current manager of Sheffield United, having taken over from Chris Wilder in the summer.

How many matches has Stoke City won this season?

Stoke City has won four out of their five matches in the Championship, placing them second in the league.

What is Barnsley's current standing in League One?

Barnsley is currently third in League One, just one point off the top spot after a strong start to the season.

Who is managing Plymouth Argyle?

Plymouth Argyle is managed by Tom Cleverley, who has recently begun to turn the team's fortunes around.

What challenges is Peterborough United facing this season?

Peterborough United has struggled early in the season, but their recent win against Wycombe Wanderers provides hope as they aim to climb the table.