Why testimonial against Blades is just so right for Brayford

IF there is one club, other than Burton Albion, that first team coach John Brayford feels an allegiance to, it is without doubt Sheffield United.

- By COLSTON CRAWFORD

That is why it is entirely right that his testimonial match will be against the Blades on Tuesday at the Pirelli Stadium, when the Championship club will undoubtedly bring a large number of spectators.

Brayford began his professional career with the Brewers in 2006 and also played for Crewe Alexandra, Derby County and Cardiff City in a terrific career.

But though he only played 69 matches for Sheffield United, firstly on loan and then after a reported £2m transfer from Cardiff, he became a cult hero with the club, nicknamed The Beard - while he has usually sported a beard during his career, it was assuredly at its biggest while with the Blades.

He was brought to the club by Nigel Clough in January 2014, the third time Clough had signed him.

He had not been able to break into the Cardiff first team, then in the Premier League, on a regular basis and Clough had taken over a United side in trouble in the Championship four months earlier.

During that loan spell, they climbed from the bottom of the table to seventh but, just as excitingly for supporters, embarked on an FA Cup run which took them to the semifinal.