Why Wolves should sign Sheffield United star George Baldock as Matt Doherty’s replacement
As per The Telegraph, Wolves are interested in bringing George Baldock as a like-to-like replacement for Matt Doherty, who joined Tottenham in this transfer window (source – BBC Sport).
Profile
George Baldock is a 27-year-old English defender who plays for Sheffield United. He started his youth career at Milton Keynes Dons in 2009. In the first few seasons, he struggled to get first-team action. Hence, he was sent on loan to Northampton, Tamworth and IBV Vestmannaeyjar in the 2011-12 season.
Another loan spell to Tamworth followed in 2012. He returned for the next season and this time, he got a lot of game time at MK Dons. However, he was again sent on loan, now to Oxford United for 2 seasons.
He played the full 2016-17 season at MK Dons after returning. In total, he has played 125 games for MK Dons, scored twice and assisted eight times (source – Transfermarkt).
He joined Sheffield United in a permanent transfer in 2017. Since then, he has been an indispensable part of the Blades’ side and was a part of the side that secured promotion to the Premier League. He also impressed in their first season back in the top-flight.
Is he a good replacement for Doherty?
Wolves have lost one of their best assets when it comes to their unique style of play and 3-4-3 formation. Matt Doherty played as the right-wingback in the setup. He provided width and threat from the wide position. From that position, he often helped with goals and assists as his stats would prove. In 302 games, he scored 28 and assisted 41 (source – Transfermarkt).
While George Baldock may not have such numbers in terms of goal contributions, it is because he has predominantly played in a setup that employs traditional right-backs. This means his primary duty is to defend.
Yes, nowadays, fullbacks are required to be proficient at both ends of the pitch. But with Sheffield playing a tactic that involves their centre-backs running up the field, it requires the full-backs to stay in their own half.
Verdict
Baldock is a very experienced player when it comes to English football. While his primary position is right-back, he can be asked to play a little higher to suit Wolves’ formation. The Englishman looks like an able replacement for Matt Doherty and Wolves should try to get him.
