SLAVIN’ IT Gunners boss argues that defence HAS tightened up HE CAN STILL BE SPECIAL BREW FOR BLADES

GOAL SHY: Brewster has failed to score this season

RHIAN BREWSTER has been backed to deal with the mental scars left by a Premier League baptism of fire.

The England Under-21s striker has endured a nightmare first full top-flight campaign after failing to score since arriving at Sheffield United from Liverpool six months ago.

Brewster has struggled to shoulder his club-record

£23.5million pricetag, and has so far drawn a blank from his

11 starts, with a further 13 appearances from the bench.

The forward, 21, has been unable to reproduce the scoring form he showed on loan with Swansea in the Championship last season.

But Paul Heckingbottom insists the youngster has all the attributes to be a success.

The Blades’ caretaker boss said: “I don’t get the sense this season has taken a toll on him. He’s a bright character and I really like his energy.

“He gets shots off, he’s got a good eye for goal and he’s got to learn and understand the other parts of the game.

“Then, what I believe are his outstanding qualities will allow him to stand apart.”

Heckingbottom also defended Blades ‘scapegoat’ John Lundstram, as the Prem’s basement boys bid to cut the 15-point gap to safety by halting a four-game losing run at home to Arsenal.

Angry fans have targeted the midfielder – accusing the contract rebel of shirking it as he prepares to quit in summer.

But Heckingbottom added: “I can understand the fans’ frustrations 100 per cent because of the results and the season it’s been.

“In terms of effort and commitment you only have to look at the physical data and output John’s producing to see he’s making the effort.

“If it’s a question of quality then that’s a different matter

– I have questioned that from us as a team.”