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Viking Chat => Viking Chat => Topic started by: ian1980 on January 04, 2018, 10:02:57 am

Title: Whiteman
Post by: ian1980 on January 04, 2018, 10:02:57 am
Doesn’t sound like he’s coming back for rest of season:

NEWS | Ben Whiteman feels his loan move at Rovers has really helped his development as a player, after returning to parent club Sheffield United.

The midfielder has made 30 appearances, scoring seven goals, since his summer move to the Keepmoat Stadium, with the Blades opting not to extend his loan.

Whiteman said: “It has been really good to play regularly, it is a step up from League Two and I feel I have done ok.

“League Two is a bit more physical, but it has been a real learning curve and I have loved my time with Rovers.”

Whiteman’s last act in a Rovers shirt was to score the equalising goal at Peterborough United on New Year’s Day.

He added: “It is nice to be leaving on a high and with the team doing well. I would be happy to come back, but obviously I’m hoping to go to United and do well.

“It’s just one of those things, I was fully expecting to stay here for the season so am a bit sad to be leaving - I’ve loved it and can’t thank the fans, players, manager and staff enough.”
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: GazLaz on January 04, 2018, 10:07:50 am
Likely to come back I’d say, seems strange things weren’t agreed before the loans expired though.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Retdon1 on January 04, 2018, 10:08:19 am
That's a big blow although he could return before the window closes
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Jonathan on January 04, 2018, 10:09:17 am
Very odd. I’d still be surprised if he wasn’t back here for the rest of the season.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: since-1969 on January 04, 2018, 10:09:23 am
Doesn’t sound like he’s coming back for rest of season:

NEWS | Ben Whiteman feels his loan move at Rovers has really helped his development as a player, after returning to parent club Sheffield United.

The midfielder has made 30 appearances, scoring seven goals, since his summer move to the Keepmoat Stadium, with the Blades opting not to extend his loan.

Whiteman said: “It has been really good to play regularly, it is a step up from League Two and I feel I have done ok.

“League Two is a bit more physical, but it has been a real learning curve and I have loved my time with Rovers.”

Whiteman’s last act in a Rovers shirt was to score the equalising goal at Peterborough United on New Year’s Day.

He added: “It is nice to be leaving on a high and with the team doing well. I would be happy to come back, but obviously I’m hoping to go to United and do well.

“It’s just one of those things, I was fully expecting to stay here for the season so am a bit sad to be leaving - I’ve loved it and can’t thank the fans, players, manager and staff enough.”
I told you this would happen .

“The Blunts are in a bit of a poor run , they could even drop to 6th today if results go the wrong way . My concern is the January window could see the looking at their squad and Whiteman may be come into their thinking “.

This has more to do with Blunts not having enough in reserve to see them through to the end of the season. 
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: GazLaz on January 04, 2018, 10:10:43 am
He’s nowhere near good enough to play in the Championship.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: steve@dcfd on January 04, 2018, 10:11:13 am
Liam Hoden tweeted

An agreement had been reached between the two clubs for Whiteman to remain at the Keepmoat for the rest of the season but the Blades pulled the deal at late notice #drfc #sufc #twitterblades

Ben Whiteman will now not be returning to #drfc as Sheffield United intend to hold onto him due to injury problems at the club. #sufc #twitterblades
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: darren61 on January 04, 2018, 10:14:43 am
This news was on the Sheff Utd forum yesterday, took it with a pinch of salt.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: The Red Baron on January 04, 2018, 10:15:36 am
He's cup tied, so he won't ease their injury problems this weekend.

More likely another club has put in a bid to sign him permanently.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: big fat yorkshire pudding on January 04, 2018, 10:18:46 am
Strange.  I would straight away take the opportunity to get someone else in. I don't think he's quite good enough. However I do think he's improved in the last few games.  Ok league one player but he's gonna be sat around at sheff utd.

On that point they'll soon be pushing for a whole eleven that at some point has played for us.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: RedJ on January 04, 2018, 10:20:37 am
Bit of a blow. He's recently performed to a good standard so it's a shame he's going back just when it was starting to come together.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: GazLaz on January 04, 2018, 10:22:03 am
If he’s not coming back I’d try and get Kean Bryan on loan from City.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Copps is Magic on January 04, 2018, 10:23:56 am
7 goals in any league for any midfielder is not shabby (especially as 21 year old), if you've got that player on your books you'd have a look wouldn't you, especially with a reported injury crisis. I wonder how many thought Lundstram wasn't good enough for the championship when he was 21? Or when he was playing for us. But he seems to have made the step up.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: jamesrover17 on January 04, 2018, 10:36:18 am
Gutted at this... It always worries me when one of your best players is only on loan... Hopefully after Wilder has re-assesed his development he can return for the rest of the season... Cant see him featuring much in Uniteds team at the moment even with their injury problems
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: RoversAlias on January 04, 2018, 10:49:42 am
That is a huge blow for me, he's been one of our best players during this good run and scored important goals. Much rather have kept him than Kongolo.

Ferguson needs to sign a replacement asap and could do with getting someone with a bit more experience if it's at all possible.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on January 04, 2018, 11:02:29 am
That is a blow and sounds like one out of our control.

It's a pity as he was just starting to look really good. Even if it is a short term measure and he bench warms at the Blades, he will lose a bit of match sharpness.

Perhaps this will also force DFs hand to try and get the Houghton deal over the line.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Chris Black come back on January 04, 2018, 11:07:38 am
Not insurmountable. Houghton is just as effective at bottom of diamond. Potentially also Luke to come back soon in that position.

Further forward at tip there is Copps and potentially Rowe could come in to that position.  Also Mandeville!
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: steve@dcfd on January 04, 2018, 11:09:57 am
It’s not just DF but the CEO for the financial package as well. It looks like there’s not alot left in the budget if this goes through at the right terms for the club.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Alan Southstand on January 04, 2018, 11:12:06 am
That is a space that needs filling, pronto.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: DonnyOsmond on January 04, 2018, 11:12:11 am
Not insurmountable. Houghton is just as effective at bottom of diamond. Potentially also Luke to come back soon in that position.

Further forward at tip there is Copps and potentially Rowe could come in to that position.  Also Mandeville!

Right of the diamond?
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Jonathan on January 04, 2018, 11:17:32 am
Well I am surprised. But this is how the loan market works, he was only ever on loan. Those citing a space in the squad should also note a space on the wage bill following his departure.

His goals will need replacing. His allround game needed quite some work so I don’t think it’ll be difficult to find someone that offers more in general play, but his seven goals were undoubtedly a significant contribution.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: DonnyOsmond on January 04, 2018, 11:21:16 am
Well I am surprised. But this is how the loan market works, he was only ever on loan. Those citing a space in the squad should also note a space on the wage bill following his departure.

His goals will need replacing. His allround game needed quite some work so I don’t think it’ll be difficult to find someone that offers more in general play, but his seven goals were undoubtedly a significant contribution.

Given his young age and only being a squad player for them I doubt he was on much wages and to get better would probably cost more.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: DMnumber4 on January 04, 2018, 11:25:13 am
Was always a slight worry for me that three quarters of the (sometimes) midfield was actually on loan in: Kongolo, Whiteman and Houghton.

IF Houghton was signed permanently though...
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: IDM on January 04, 2018, 11:26:12 am
In the DFP Fergie hasn't ruled out Whiteman coming back before the end of the window, if the issues at Sheffield Utd sort themselves out.

Clutching at straws maybe?

Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Jonathan on January 04, 2018, 11:27:41 am
Well I am surprised. But this is how the loan market works, he was only ever on loan. Those citing a space in the squad should also note a space on the wage bill following his departure.

His goals will need replacing. His allround game needed quite some work so I don’t think it’ll be difficult to find someone that offers more in general play, but his seven goals were undoubtedly a significant contribution.

Given his young age and only being a squad player for them I doubt he was on much wages and to get better would probably cost more.

Other than his knack of scoring goals (which I realise is not to be sniffed at, he’s a very good finisher) I don’t think he’ll be too difficult to replace. Take the goals away and he was no better than Harry Middleton who we let go. Somebody will need to step up to the plate to fill the goals scored void, though.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: RoversAlias on January 04, 2018, 11:34:05 am
No better than Middleton! I grant you he hasn't been a world beater in general play but that is harsh in the extreme.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: DonnyOsmond on January 04, 2018, 11:36:03 am
He's definitely quicker than Middleton. Even my Gran is tbf.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on January 04, 2018, 11:44:48 am
I agree Jonathan that his goals leave a void but your assessment that he's no better than Middleton is way off the mark. Whiteman is stronger, quicker and doesn't dally on the ball.

Let's not forget, Mason is a very able Midfielder but alas, has not got the same goal threat. With Mason doing so well at the back, it would also leave a hole there.

Looks like DF and GB will be on the phone quite a bit!
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on January 04, 2018, 11:49:08 am
He’s nowhere near good enough to play in the Championship.

If he wasn't then I doubt Wilder would have him back. Sure, he may not be a starter every week but he wouldn't disgrace when called upon from the bench.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: GazLaz on January 04, 2018, 11:51:07 am
He’s nowhere near good enough to play in the Championship.

If he wasn't then I doubt Wilder would have him back. Sure, he may not be a starter every week but he wouldn't disgrace when called upon from the bench.

I’ve seen him play live more than Wilder I can tell you that.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: CrippyCooke on January 04, 2018, 11:53:33 am
This is a shame as he was coming into a bit of form. I do, however, think he'll be back later in the window.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: since-1969 on January 04, 2018, 11:53:40 am
He has a taste for scoring now and that’s worth it’s weight when you look at where the Blades are in the League and if they were to stand any chance of a playoff place they’d be stupid not to give Whiteman a chance .
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Jonathan on January 04, 2018, 11:53:59 am
His general play reminds me a lot of Middleton. Telegraphs his passes and goes missing for long periods. The difference, and I fully accept it’s a significant one, is that he scores goals. He is a very good finisher and that gives him great potential admittedly.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Campsall rover on January 04, 2018, 11:55:30 am
He’s nowhere near good enough to play in the Championship.
You don’t know that until he gets the chance. I think you may be wrong.
He will get a bit more time on the ball in the Championship. More footballing teams in that league than in league 1  He is only 21 and will imo become a very accomplished player.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: since-1969 on January 04, 2018, 11:56:40 am
Amazing how we turn on a player when his parent club also see his potential and exercise their right to recall . He’s well shut of us lot , we don’t see his future only ours .
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: GazLaz on January 04, 2018, 11:56:56 am
His general play reminds me a lot of Middleton. Telegraphs his passes and goes missing for long periods. The difference, and I fully accept it’s a significant one, is that he scores goals. He is a very good finisher and that gives him great potential admittedly.

I think the picture he sees in his head is far superior to Harry. You can tell by the range of passes he attempts. He always wants to pass forward as well which means he gives the ball away more than he should.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: RoversAlias on January 04, 2018, 12:50:37 pm
His general play reminds me a lot of Middleton. Telegraphs his passes and goes missing for long periods. The difference, and I fully accept it’s a significant one, is that he scores goals. He is a very good finisher and that gives him great potential admittedly.

His range of passing is vastly superior, as is his movement. His vision, anticipation and overall ability outshines Middleton by a long way. You appear to not be looking past the most obvious traits. I actually thought Middleton had potential but he was a very basic footballer. Safe passing, no dynamic movement, certainly no goal threat. Whiteman is miles and miles above that kid's level and will be a big miss if we don't replace him.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Bezza on January 04, 2018, 01:05:34 pm
Whiteman and Houghton missing for Saturday will make it hard for us , they were showing signs of doing well for us.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: since-1969 on January 04, 2018, 01:06:43 pm
It’s just another day in the life of DRFC.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Dutch Uncle on January 04, 2018, 01:07:09 pm
Whiteman and Houghton missing for Saturday will make it hard for us , they were showing signs of doing well for us.

Agree entirely. Baudry Defensive Midfield?
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Rovers91 on January 04, 2018, 01:07:21 pm
Hardly surprising covers injuries for them, hopefully they sign a couple so we can get him back. But I do think with how Sheff Utd play football he will flourish in their team if he gets a chance.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Alan Southstand on January 04, 2018, 01:22:07 pm
Is Houghton not available either?
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: IDM on January 04, 2018, 01:24:59 pm
Not unless he has re-signed in time.. 
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Jonathan on January 04, 2018, 01:39:58 pm
His general play reminds me a lot of Middleton. Telegraphs his passes and goes missing for long periods. The difference, and I fully accept it’s a significant one, is that he scores goals. He is a very good finisher and that gives him great potential admittedly.

His range of passing is vastly superior, as is his movement. His vision, anticipation and overall ability outshines Middleton by a long way. You appear to not be looking past the most obvious traits. I actually thought Middleton had potential but he was a very basic footballer. Safe passing, no dynamic movement, certainly no goal threat. Whiteman is miles and miles above that kid's level and will be a big miss if we don't replace him.

I thought Middleton was alright too, just alright. The way you speak of Whiteman’s range of passing and vision makes it sound like he was Glen Hoddle in there. I rarely saw a pass out of the ordinary or predictable. What he did have was a calmness and execution when a chance came his way that sets him apart and we will miss that. He’s scored seven goals and that doesn’t come cheaply. I’d have much rather he’d stayed on for the season, but loaning players carries this risk. We’ll have to replace him but I don’t see that as an insurmountable task.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Alan Southstand on January 04, 2018, 01:55:53 pm
I see it as an opportunity to sign a player more suited to our requirements. Houghton has to sign before this Saturday, or we're looking a bit exposed down the middle.

I would rather see either a right or left sided midfielder that can get up and down the pitch, that is be as good offensively as they are defensively. I stick by my theory that if we get a left sided midfielder, it releases Rowe to play at the tip of the diamond, or even as a No10 type forward.

I like Whiteman and, in an ideal world, we would have him and another midfielder besides, but the budget is what it is!
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Fur Calf on January 04, 2018, 03:26:26 pm
Whiteman is a far superior footballer than one paced Middleton that's why Whiteman has been recalled by the blades to the Championship whereas Middleton is where?
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: pib on January 04, 2018, 03:41:20 pm
Whiteman has lots of areas of his game to improve on but he's far better than Middleton IMO.

His passing and finishing is miles better as is his mobility.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: mrfrostsdad on January 04, 2018, 03:42:16 pm
Disappointing as he's done well the last few games. He's not the best player we've ever had, but he has a goal in him. Is he our top scorer in the league??
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: GazLaz on January 04, 2018, 03:44:47 pm
6 a piece him and Marquis I think.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: mrfrostsdad on January 04, 2018, 03:58:50 pm
6 a piece him and Marquis I think.

Thanks Gaz. I think that probably says more about our strikers than Whiteman 😄😄
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: roverstillidie91 on January 04, 2018, 04:03:44 pm
Transcript taken from Sheffield Utd official website

Ben Whiteman has been recalled from his loan at Doncaster Rovers.

The 21-year-old midfielder has enjoyed an excellent spell at the Keepmoat Stadium, scoring seven goals in 30 appearances for Darren Ferguson's side.

The highlight of Ben's stint down the M18 was netting a hat-trick in the space of ten minutes against Southend in October.

Chris Wilder explained his reasoning behind recalling the versatile performer.

The boss remarked: "He's done well for Doncaster and we're delighted with the amount of games he's played under Darren.

"We've monitored him closely this season and now we want to have a closer look at him and see exactly where he is at in terms of his development. We've also got to make sure we've got competition and depth in our squad between now and the end of the campaign."
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: steve@dcfd on January 04, 2018, 04:24:21 pm
I’m sorry how can any body compare Whiteman with Middleton. Last year he played for Mansfield in league 2 and scored goals for them. Middleton played some games for us and he showed he was not up to it. He’s gone to Port Vale in League 2 and couldn’t get in there side, so was shipped out to Halifax. At the same time Whiteman has score 6 league goals for us and showed improvement. If SU gets the players they want he could return.
But we must not rely on that and get in a replacement loan or permanent.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: DearneValleyRover on January 04, 2018, 05:12:37 pm
Diagouraga’s contract has expired at Plymouth and isn’t being renewed. He’s been instrumental in turning their form around but his family is in Leeds. 30 years old defensive midfielder exactly what we require.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Copps is Magic on January 04, 2018, 05:30:51 pm
Has Fergie ever signed someone that old since he's been at the club? Doesn't strike my as something he'd do.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: GazLaz on January 04, 2018, 05:34:29 pm
Has Fergie ever signed someone that old since he's been at the club? Doesn't strike my as something he'd do.

He did try to sign Taylor.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: IDM on January 04, 2018, 05:36:49 pm
Has Fergie ever signed someone that old since he's been at the club? Doesn't strike my as something he'd do.

Does re-signing Copps count??
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Retdon1 on January 04, 2018, 05:56:03 pm
Has Fergie ever signed someone that old since he's been at the club? Doesn't strike my as something he'd do.

Does re-signing Copps count??

Didn't he sign mcsheffry
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Campsall rover on January 04, 2018, 06:13:00 pm
I have no problem with a 30 year old at all. In fact I think we need another experienced player along side out younger ones.
Coppinger 37 this month, Butler 33, Blair 29, Baudry 29, Rowe 27/28 not sure which without googling it.
All the remaining squad are 22 or under.
Not counted Williams because  it seems unlikely that we will see him play for us again.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Campsall rover on January 04, 2018, 06:15:16 pm
Sorry wrong Marquis is 24/25
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Campsall rover on January 04, 2018, 06:18:30 pm
Googled it, Rowe 29 in May and Marquis 25 in May
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: sedwardsdrfc on January 04, 2018, 06:36:40 pm
Not insurmountable. Houghton is just as effective at bottom of diamond. Potentially also Luke to come back soon in that position.

Further forward at tip there is Copps and potentially Rowe could come in to that position.  Also Mandeville!

Right of the diamond?

Blair can play there and probably is better in general play, i can see blades signing another for their midfield and him coming back before the end of the window. no doubt he's not been recalled to be a starter for them so they'll be happy for him to come back if they get extra bodies in
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: graingrover on January 04, 2018, 06:41:30 pm
Blades have offered £750,000 for Leonard of Southend in that position and have been turned down according to their fans' forum gossip.Some believe BW will be offered to SUFC to top up the bid especially since he scored that hatrick against them.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: mushRTID on January 04, 2018, 06:48:39 pm
Blades have offered £750,000 for Leonard of Southend in that position and have been turned down according to their fans' forum gossip.Some believe BW will be offered to SUFC to top up the bid especially since he scored that hatrick against them.

I really can’t see that maybe sending him there on loan as part of the deal.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on January 04, 2018, 06:49:57 pm
Interesting. Assuming Whiteman would be agreeable to that? I'd like to think Wilder will be true to his word and give Whiteman a fair crack rather than use him as a pawn in another deal.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: ravenrover on January 04, 2018, 06:52:23 pm
Wide right of a diamond? I give you Mattie Blair
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Rovers91 on January 04, 2018, 10:09:06 pm
Blades have offered £750,000 for Leonard of Southend in that position and have been turned down according to their fans' forum gossip.Some believe BW will be offered to SUFC to top up the bid especially since he scored that hatrick against them.

Whiteman will only be back at blades to cover injuries for now, if that changes he will come back to us. Wilder seems a fan of his so be amazed if he's shipped out on a permo and it would make no sense to loan him to Southend rather than us even if they are after one of their players.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: anne honemous on January 04, 2018, 10:15:34 pm
He's a loss in the short term but he's helped put us in a good position and he's not irreplaceable.

There are as good as, if not better, players out there playing in the same position that we could realistically sign - we just haven't seen them regularly yet.

Good luck to him!

DF would have prepared for this eventuality so as long as the board back him, I trust his judgement in replacing him in the team accordingly.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: 1879Rovers on January 05, 2018, 07:03:53 am
I think he will be back before the window closes.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: andysly on January 05, 2018, 09:49:45 am
No need for him to go this week as he’ll already be cuptied. So no use to Blunts.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Filo on January 05, 2018, 09:54:45 am
No need for him to go this week as he’ll already be cuptied. So no use to Blunts.

Also, as Fergie stated, if he gets a game for Sheff Utd in January he can't go anywhere else this season as you can't play for three clubs in a season
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on January 05, 2018, 10:03:37 am
No need for him to go this week as he’ll already be cuptied. So no use to Blunts.

Of course there is. If Wilder intends to play him, then he needs to get involved in the training sessions and get an idea of what's expected of him. The very next game is the Sheffield derby and we shouldn't be surprised to see him on the bench at least.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: GazLaz on January 05, 2018, 01:56:24 pm
Ryan Leonard signing for Sheff U today, you would think he would be higher up the pecking order than Whiteman in the same position.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: the vicar on January 05, 2018, 02:29:35 pm
Was it not turned down by Southend
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: GazLaz on January 05, 2018, 02:31:35 pm
Was it not turned down by Southend


No
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: Filo on January 05, 2018, 02:32:12 pm
Understand Ryan Leonard is currently on his way to Sheffield for contract talks #sufc. There is a possibility the transfer could go through today.
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: glosterred on January 05, 2018, 02:53:06 pm
No need for him to go this week as he’ll already be cuptied. So no use to Blunts.

Bet the blunts would be pissed if he did stay an extra week, played and got injured.

COYR
Title: Re: Whiteman
Post by: the vicar on January 05, 2018, 02:54:51 pm
Well Sheff U gave them an ultimatum this morning to get the deal done by Monday or it's end of