It would be hard to find a current British footballer with a more polarised reputation amongst the supporters of two different clubs than ex-Sheffield United midfielder John Lundstram. Departing Bramall Lane on bad terms last summer after an extended contract standoff, Lundstram has enjoyed a remarkable first season north of the border with Rangers.<\/p>\n
Bemoaned by Blades, idolised at Ibrox, Lundstram stands just 90 minutes away from creating European history as Rangers prepare for the Europa League semi-final second leg against RB Leipzig tonight.<\/p>\n
Bemoaned by Blades<\/strong><\/p>\n For fans of United, Lundstram\u2019s success in Scotland has come largely as a surprise.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ve seen quite a lot of Rangers\u2019 European games and at times it\u2019s like watching a completely different player,\u201d says diehard Blades fan Hal.<\/p>\n \u201cI must say I am surprised he\u2019s adapted to life so quickly and well north of the border with Rangers,\u201d the co-host of podcast Sheff United Way added.<\/p>\n Making 120 appearances for Sheffield United between 2017 and 2021, Lundstram enjoyed some great times at the Blades as part of the side which won promotion to the Premier League in 2019.<\/p>\n The Scouse midfielder went on to become one of the team\u2019s stars in their maiden season in the top flight, scoring five goals as the Blades achieved a commendable 9th-placed finish.<\/p>\n It was during United\u2019s second season in the Premier League, which ultimately ended in relegation, when his reputation with the club\u2019s supporters soured as he became embroiled in protracted contract negotiations before eventually leaving in the summer of 2021.<\/p>\n Lundstram\u2019s attitude and commitment to the club during these final months has been called into question by Blades fans.<\/p>\n Jason Holyhead, freelance writer and author of Sheffield United book Ain\u2019t Got a Barrel of Money, <\/em>outlines: \u201cIn his early days at United he was pretty good and most fans liked him, but then he refused to sign a new deal. From that point onwards, his effort and attitude was appalling in my opinion.\u201d<\/p>\n Idolised at Ibrox<\/strong><\/p>\n Fast forward twelve months, and the supporters of Lundstram\u2019s current employers have markedly more complimentary things to say about the 28-year-old.<\/p>\n After a tricky start to life in Glasgow under the auspices of fellow Liverpool born manager Steven Gerrard, Lundstram has developed into a key cog in new boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst\u2019s system.<\/p>\n Jonny McFarlane, Project Editor at The Rangers Review, says Lundstram has benefited from a difference in tactical approach implemented by Dutchman van Bronckhorst.<\/p>\n Jonny says: \u201cUnder Steven Gerrard, Lundstram was almost straight-jacketed by the burden of information and automation expected as part of a midfield shape that was largely focused on covering for the rampaging full backs.<\/p>\n \u201cIn van Bronckhorst’s team he has a lot more freedom and responsibility.\u201d<\/p>\n Lundstram\u2019s newfound form and confidence under his new manager has enabled him to grow into one of Rangers\u2019 key players, and increasingly one of the favourites of the club\u2019s ardent supporters.<\/p>\n \u201cFor a long time, Rangers supporters have lacked a player that they feel runs through brick walls for them. Lundstram is that type of player,\u201d says Joshua Barrie, a writer for The Rangers Review and Sky Sports News contributor.<\/p>\n \u201cAs well as his technical ability, Lundstram is a leader in the middle and the supporters love that,\u201d Joshua adds.<\/p>\n It is Lundstram\u2019s performances in the Europa League which have particularly reputation-enhancing.<\/p>\n Awarded the club\u2019s Goal of the Season for his left-footed strike in a famous victory for the Gers at the Westfalenstadion against Borussia Dortmund, Lundstram has shone in both midfield and defence during Rangers\u2019 outstanding European campaign.<\/p>\n \ud83c\udf99\ufe0f John Lundstram spoke to @RangersTV<\/a> after collecting the Men’s Goal of the Season award.#RangersPOTY<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/RRLVd2eCus<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) April 24, 2022<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n