Brewster’s not stewing over Blades blanks

RHIAN BREWSTER is being backed to deal with any mental scars left by his Premier League baptism of fire.

Sheffield United’s England Under-21 striker has not scored since arriving from Liverpool six months ago for his first top-flight season.

Brewster has struggled to shoulder a club-record £23.5million price-tag, and drawn a blank from his 24 Blades appearances so far.

The 21-year-old has been unable to reproduce the impressive scoring form he showed on loan with Swansea in the Championship last season, but Paul Heckingbottom insists the striker has all the attributes to become a success.

The Bramall Lane caretaker boss said: “I don’t get the sense this season has taken a toll. He’s a bright character, bubbly, and I really like his energy. You have conversations with him, and he’s got a smile on his face.

“He gets shots off, he’s got a good eye for goal and he’s got to learn the other parts of the game that will get him minutes on the pitch. Then what I believe are his outstanding qualities will stand him apart.”

Heckingbottom also defended ‘scapegoat’ John Lundstram ahead of today’s visit by Arsenal.

Angry fans have accused the contract-rebel midfielder of shirking as he prepares to quit this summer.

Heckingbottom added: “Leaving on a free brings attention – but in terms of commitment you only have to look at the physical data, and the output John’s producing, to see that he’s making all the effort.”