Ollie Norwood Reflects on Sheffield United Exit and Adventure at Stockport

Ollie Norwood's Transition from Sheffield United to Stockport: A Journey of Resilience

The writing was on the wall for Ollie Norwood shortly after Chris Wilder returned to take over at Sheffield United last December. Under previous manager Paul Heckingbottom, Norwood had the opportunity to shine, starting 12 of the Blades' first 15 Premier League games and captaining the team in six of those. However, Wilder’s arrival saw a significant reduction in his playing time, as he only started four of the remaining matches in a season that ended in relegation.

Change in Dynamics

Despite the loyal fanbase at Bramall Lane who cherished his contributions—two promotions from the Championship underscored his legacy—Norwood faced the harsh reality of dwindling opportunities leading to his release in June after 250 appearances. Reflecting on his time at the club, he shared, "It was quite obvious I wouldn't be staying" due to his reduced playing time. He added, "Different managers have different opinions and pick different teams. I’d have liked to have played more, but it is what it is.”

A New Chapter at Stockport

As he moved on from Sheffield United, Norwood quickly transitioned to Stockport County. With the help of his agent's connections within the club, he secured a trial that led to a three-year deal in August, marking a significant milestone as contracts exceeding two years for players over 30 are rare. "The security of a three-year deal is one thing, but there are other factors: I live locally and I've got a young family," he remarked on his decision to join.

Ambition and Goals

Norwood also noted the owner's ambition as a critical factor for his move to Stockport. "The ambition of the owner, where he sees the football club going, and what he wants to achieve" resonated with him, and he expressed excitement about contributing as a senior player. Stockport has witnessed remarkable growth under owner Mark Stott, with successes in both the National League and League Two, and the goal is now to return to the second tier.

The Season So Far: Stockport's Progress in Sky Bet League One

Current Standing and Performance

Currently, Stockport County stands sixth in the Sky Bet League One table. Their impressive form—four wins, four draws, and only one loss—has been underpinned by a solid defense, with five clean sheets to their name. As Norwood stated, "Over the course of the season, if you take 16 points from nine games, almost two points on average, you're not going to be far from getting promoted." This optimism, however, comes with a note of caution following a harsh reality check after a 4-1 loss to Leyton Orient.

Embracing the Challenge

Norwood approaches this season with a balanced mindset, reflecting on the evolution of League One since he last played there in 2012. "It’s definitely changed! Everybody's trying to play football," he noted, attributing this shift to the influence of prominent figures like Pep Guardiola. He appreciates the higher standards and intensity of play compared to his earlier experiences in the league.

Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations

Although the path ahead remains uncertain, Norwood emphasizes the importance of enjoying the journey. "I just want to really enjoy my football. I've not got years and years left ahead of me now, so I take each day as it comes." His focus is placed not only on personal fulfillment but also on helping guide Stockport to achieve their ambitions in the league.

Conclusion

The transition from Sheffield United to Stockport has been a significant change for Ollie Norwood, marked by a mix of nostalgia and hope. As the team gears up for their upcoming matches, including the crucial trip to Charlton on October 19, follow them closely to see if they can maintain their upward trajectory in League One.