Sheffield United supporters could be forgiven for having mixed emotions this season over their club's chances of survival in the Championship. Following Sander Berge and Iliman Ndiaye's departures, holes have appeared in their attack while their goal-scoring has suffered significantly.
Gustavo Hamer from Coventry City offers hope; the Brazilian-born Dutchman has stood out in defeats to Manchester City and Everton, setting up Cameron Archer with an incredible hooked pass during his home debut.
1. He’s a risk taker
There was one moment during Friday's 2-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest when Hamer caught my attention. As soon as the Ball dropped to him at the edge of the area, he looked around him to spot an assortment of defenders before him - before proceeding to hit a sidewinder pass through all of them with great accuracy.
The move by the defender was daring but calculated; with experience playing in the Championship and knowing how to use the ball properly. He completed 31 passes while scoring one goal with one shot on target and two accurate crosses against Nottingham Forest.
Larson notes that Hamer reminds us of grassroots organizing and women as the source of power within the Civil Rights Movement. That's exactly what Paul Heckingbottom had in mind with Hamer; her signing marks his commitment to investing in talent development - an admirable goal in itself but only one piece of a larger plan.
2. He’s a creative midfielder
Hamer is known to take risks, something Blades fans can appreciate. Last season he played an integral part for Mark Robins as Coventry reached the Championship play-off final - scoring 11 times and playing 132 times for them before moving to Bramall Lane after agreeing a four-year deal for an undisclosed fee.
Hamer's departure is certainly disappointing for the Sky Blues, but his contract situation always made his stay unlikely. Now, he will provide another strong midfield presence alongside Iliman Ndiaye of Holland while providing attacking options out wide
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Hamer can provide essential protection to United's defence when needed and won't hesitate to put balls into the box, which will be essential in keeping United alive this season.
4. He’s a good finisher
Sheffield United possess in Hamer an attacking-minded midfielder capable of playing multiple roles. On his Premier League debut against Nottingham Forest he scored one goal and was tireless in their defeat to Manchester City while setting up Cameron Archer with the pass of the match against Everton. Hamer excels at getting behind defences to create opportunities while his work-rate off the ball is impressive - ideal for an underperforming side as his work-rate off the ball can help provide relief against their rivals. Furthermore he's not afraid to take risks or get into dangerous areas - providing relief when needed most.
