Jordan Ayew makes Sheffield United debut as Wolves snatch late victory

Ghana captain Jordan Ayew made his Sheffield United debut on Sunday as the Blades suffered a 1-0 defeat by Wolverhampton Wanderers in the English Championship.

The 35-year-old forward came off the bench in the second half, replacing Ben Brereton Díaz as manager Chris Wilder looked for a way to unlock a tightly contested match.

Ayew was quickly involved after his introduction, sending an effort wide as he attempted to make an immediate impact.

Sheffield United had competed well for much of the game and appeared on course for a point, with neither side able to find a breakthrough.

But Wolves struck in the 90th minute to snatch all three points.

Raúl Jiménez finished from close range after a move involving Kieran Trippier and Doyle created an opening in the United defence. Doyle’s effort took a deflection and fell kindly to Jiménez, who made no mistake from close range.

The result was a frustrating one for Sheffield United, particularly after their midweek victory over Blackburn Rovers.

Wilder made four changes to the side that won at Blackburn, bringing McGuinness, Arblaster, Bamford and Phillips into the starting XI, while Ayew began on the bench.

His first appearance for the club came only days after he joined as a free agent following the end of his contract with Leicester City.

Ayew brings a wealth of experience to Sheffield United, having previously played for Marseille, Sochaux, Lorient, Aston Villa, Swansea City, Crystal Palace and Leicester.

The Ghana international also captained the Black Stars at the 2026 Fifa World Cup, starting all four of Ghana’s matches at the tournament.

With his first appearance now behind him, Ayew will hope to build his fitness and form as he competes for a place in Wilder’s starting XI during the Championship campaign.

For Sheffield United, however, the focus will be on recovering from a damaging late defeat and returning to winning ways.