Sheffield United fans are in a state of bewilderment and excitement. Over the course of just two weeks frantic transfer activity after weeks of stagnation, has transformed what was a grim outlook. And after all the speculation concerning prize asset Gus Hamer, he has somehow remained at Bramall Lane.

The club have reached the international break on the back of five straight defeats under manager Ruben Selles who is facing demands be sacked from a growing number of angry fans. The Spaniard initially disappointed about his bosses handling of recruitment, now finds himself at the helm of a squad that is very different from the one he inherited.

The new ownership, despite their perceived shortcomings, has eventually done good business. With 14 players arriving and 16 departing, United have made an estimated profit of approximately £11million.

On the footballing front, the additions are welcome, yet raise questions regarding balance. Recruitment appears somewhat scattergun, particularly in the defence where SIX centre-backs have been added.

Takeaways:

• The recent transfer window at Bramall Lane has been unprecedented in its late drama and activity.
• The management strategy appeared chaotic, leaving fans confused about the club's direction.
• Substantial changes means the squad now better reflects manager Ruben Selles's vision.
• Sheffield United's financial dealings have resulted in a net gain of approximately £11 million.
• The club has significantly strengthened its defensive ranks, adding six centre-backs.
• The signing of 33-year-old free agent Danny Ings may prove to be a masterstroke providing the experienced striker can stay fit.
• The arrivals appear to have bought Selles a little more time. He now appears in control of his own destiny which will be determined by the next few results.

Links referenced in this episode:

• viewfromthejohnstreet.com

Ruben Selles defiantly faced angry Blades supporters at the away end after defeat at Middlesbrough, Sheffield United's fifth consecutive loss under his leadership. 'Your getting sacked in the morning' they chanted, while choruses of 'Chrissy Wilder and Alan Knill' rang out frequently during the second half. Tellingly, the players maintained a discreet distance as abuse was hurled at their boss. For many Blades supporters, sacking Selles now, having reached the international break, seems an ideal time to replace him. But it's not that simple for the club's American owner who have dug themselves into a big hole. Also, is it only fair, after not supporting their man until late in the summer transfer window, that the Spaniard is given more time to try and turn a dire situation around with the influx of new arrivals at his disposal?

SUMMARY:

• Ruben Selles' defiant stand in front of angry Blades fans at Middlesbrough and lack of support from players demonstrate a troubling disconnect.
• Selles has evidently lost the confidence of both fans and players.
• The club's management faces a self-inflicted dilemma regarding Selles' future after five successive defeats under his leadership.
• United's poor showing this season also raises questions about the decision-making of the club's ownership.

Striker Danny Ings and defender Japhet Tanganga are the headline names added to Sheffield United's squad this week, following on from defender Ben Godfrey's arrival and debut last week. Suddenly, there is renewed hope for the future after a desperate start to the season under new manager Ruben Selles. Now, as the Blades prepare to face table-toppers Middlesbrough at the Riverside, Selles, under intense pressure from an unhappy fanbase suddenly has a chance to reset.

SUMMARY:

• The recent defeat against Millwall has left Sheffield United fans feeling disheartened and uncertain about the team's future.
• Frantic transfer activities have provided renewed hope for United as they seek to get their season on track.
• Manager Ruben Selles is under immense pressure to achieve a turnaround.
• The arrival of players like Danny Ings and Japhet Tanganga has positively affected the mood among supporters.
• Selles has to influence a dramatic turnaround between the two international breaks or surely his short time at Bramall Lane will be over..