Ruben Selles defiantly faced angry Blades supporters at the away end after defeat at Middlesbrough, Sheffield United's fifth consecutive loss under his leadership. 'Your getting sacked in the morning' they chanted, while choruses of 'Chrissy Wilder and Alan Knill' rang out frequently during the second half. Tellingly, the players maintained a discreet distance as abuse was hurled at their boss. For many Blades supporters, sacking Selles now, having reached the international break, seems an ideal time to replace him. But it's not that simple for the club's American owner who have dug themselves into a big hole. Also, is it only fair, after not supporting their man until late in the summer transfer window, that the Spaniard is given more time to try and turn a dire situation around with the influx of new arrivals at his disposal?

SUMMARY:

• Ruben Selles' defiant stand in front of angry Blades fans at Middlesbrough and lack of support from players demonstrate a troubling disconnect.
• Selles has evidently lost the confidence of both fans and players.
• The club's management faces a self-inflicted dilemma regarding Selles' future after five successive defeats under his leadership.
• United's poor showing this season also raises questions about the decision-making of the club's ownership.