SUFC News: Hero O’Connell Set for Emotional Blades Reunion at Basham Charity Match
Jack O’Connell is set for a heartfelt return to Bramall Lane as he reunites with Sheffield United fans during Chris Basham’s ‘Big Charity Bash’ next month. The event will raise vital funds for Weston Park’s scanner appeal.
O’Connell’s final appearance for the Blades came during the behind-closed-doors era of COVID-19 football, meaning supporters never had a proper chance to say goodbye. That will change soon, as he joins a number of fellow former Blades pulling on the red and white shirt one last time.
Joining O’Connell are fan-favourite promotion-winning teammates Mark Duffy, Paul Coutts, and Leon Clarke, while former defender Phil Jagielka will take up the goalkeeper’s gloves against a Sky Sports Select XI featuring several well-known names with Blades connections.
“I think it’s always difficult when you have to retire… you don’t get that moment where you clap the fans and say thank you for everything,” Basham told *The Star* in a recent exclusive interview. “It’ll be nice for Jack to come back, feel that connection again, and show his gratitude too.
“When you leave the game, your emotions run high. Once things settle, you realize what you achieved and what it meant for the club. Looking back at those moments now, it means even more. These players are heroes to many fans, so having them back will be special—for the city and the supporters.”
While Basham’s career ended in its twilight after a horrific injury at Fulham last season, O’Connell was only 26 when a freak training-ground collision caused irreversible damage to his knee. Despite immense efforts to return, he was eventually forced to retire nearly two years ago.
“I spoke to Jack quite a lot,” Basham shared. “Especially when I was facing surgeries—I knew he’d been through it. Reaching 36 myself is an achievement, but Jack had to walk away while at the top of his game. That’s tough.”
“It wasn’t easy to watch,” he added. “But Jack offered great advice. He told me not to focus on the day-to-day, but to look at the bigger picture. Sheffield United were brilliant throughout, supporting us from the start.”
Since retiring, O’Connell—partner of England Lioness Alex Greenwood—has focused on business ventures in the fitness industry. Yet at Bramall Lane, he’ll always be remembered for his massive role in United’s rise, with two promotions in three years and a ninth-place Premier League finish.
“I think it was a close call between him and Tyrone Mings for an England call-up at the time,” Basham said. “Jack, being a left-sided centre-back and playing so well, was right in that conversation.”
Chris Basham: Sheffield United Missed Jack O’Connell Deeply
“He gave 100% in every training session and every match,” said Basham. “The lads will all tell you how good he was. But beyond that, he never took a day off—he was relentless.”
“His injury hit us hard—not just emotionally, but tactically. We really struggled to replace his energy, commitment, and leadership. He was quiet in the dressing room but commanded on the pitch.”
“I think he’ll love being back—playing a few minutes, being part of a team again. That’s what we all miss most when we step away: the bond with your teammates.”
“Whether it’s football or any other job, when you spend years with people, you form something special. Sure, there were tough times at the club, but the good times always outweighed them.”
“But the lows hurt—because you never want to let your teammates, your manager, or the fans down. The highs, though… you celebrated together, and they became some of the best moments of your life. I loved every minute.”
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