Ghana captain Jordan Ayew made his Sheffield United debut on Sunday but could not prevent the Blades from slipping to a dramatic 1-0 defeat against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Championship.
The 35-year-old forward was introduced after the break by manager Chris Wilder, replacing Ben Brereton DÃaz as Sheffield United searched for a breakthrough in an evenly contested encounter at Bramall Lane.
Ayew made an immediate impact, forcing an effort on goal shortly after coming on as he looked to inject fresh energy into the hosts’ attack.
Sheffield United appeared on course to claim at least a point after matching Wolves for much of the contest, only for the visitors to snatch victory in the closing moments.
Former Wolves striker Raúl Jiménez struck in the 90th minute after Kieran Trippier’s delivery created chaos in the penalty area.
Tommy Doyle’s effort took a favourable deflection into Jiménez’s path, allowing the Mexican to finish from close range.
The result ended a promising afternoon on a frustrating note for Wilder’s side, who had been buoyed by a positive result against Blackburn Rovers in midweek.
Wilder made four changes to the team that started that victory, bringing in McGuinness, Oliver Arblaster, Patrick Bamford and Kalvin Phillips, while Ayew began among the substitutes before making his first appearance in red and white.
His debut comes just days after joining Sheffield United as a free agent following the expiry of his contract with Leicester City.
With his first appearance now behind him, Ayew will hope to earn a starting place as Sheffield United look to bounce back in their next Championship fixture.
