Forgotten man Ivo Grbic seeks a stable future amid Sheffield United turmoil.
Sheffield United could receive a welcome transfer boost this summer as forgotten man Ivo Grbic prepares to return to Bramall Lane. Last season, the Croatian goalkeeper played 23 games on loan for Rizespor in Turkey. However, his loan has expired, and he is due to return to United for pre-season training, with two years remaining on the contract he signed 18 months ago when he arrived from Atletico Madrid.
Grbic was signed amid concerns about Wes Foderingham’s future at Bramall Lane, but he struggled to adjust to English football, prompting United to release him.
Instead, they bought Michael Cooper from Plymouth Argyle as their number one custodian, and with Adam Davies still under contract as a capable backup, another move for Grbic this summer appears to be the best option for all parties involved.
Despite his struggles in South Yorkshire, Grbic still has suitors elsewhere, with La Liga club Celta Vigo linked with the 29-year-old as they look for a replacement for Vicente Guaita, the 38-year-old former Crystal Palace veteran who is set to retire this summer when his contract expires.
The Blades are unlikely to stand in Grbic’s way if an offer is made, and the player may appreciate the opportunity to make a fresh start somewhere, given his unclear future at Bramall Lane.
He was sacked after surrendering 32 goals in his first ten appearances for United, and his only game for the Blades last season was a League Cup victory against Wrexham before moving to Turkey.
“Ivo understood the situation,” stated manager Chris Wilder, explaining his decision to dismiss Grbic. “He recognised that he came to help, but he hasn’t helped as much as he could have.
“I have to give the youngster credit; he isn’t banging doors or pointing fingers. And I think that’s refreshing because it’s so easy to throw your arms up in the air, point fingers, and avoid taking responsibility.
“It’s fairly simple to do, but first and foremost, you must look in the mirror and ensure that your performance is optimal. As someone once told me, when you point one finger at someone else, three more are pointing back at you, so be sure you don’t leave any room for criticism to come from the opposite direction.
Ivo Grbic seeks a stable future amid Sheffield United turmoil. Grbic’s stint in Turkey began horribly, as he conceded five goals on his debut against Galatasaray. He recovered from that tough start with a good run of form, but later in the season, he was sent to the hospital after colliding with Göztepe attacker Rômulo Cardoso, which raised some concerns.
Cardoso’s knee struck Grbic in the head, prompting teammates and the referee to ask for quick medical treatment. The custodian was stretchered into an ambulance and brought to the hospital. A post on social media later disclosed that test results ruled out any major harm to Grbic, and he was released from the hospital before resuming his position between the sticks.
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