Sheffield United boss Paul Heckingbottom admits he is feeling the pressure at Bramall Lane after fans chanted ‘Hecky out’ during dismal 5-0 loss to Burnley… as he insists – ‘I was angry too’

Sheffield United manager Paul Heckingbottom was left fearing the sack after Blades fans turned against him following a 5-0 trouncing at relegation rivals Burnley.

The under-fire boss admitted chants of ‘Hecky out’ and ‘You’re not fit to wear the shirt’ put him at risk. Former manager Chris Wilder has been linked to the post.

‘If the fans start, it changes the dynamic,’ said Heckingbottom. ‘The fans are right to shout, say we’re not good enough. You can’t kid them. I was as angry as well and almost singing along with them.

‘Burnley would not have been expecting a game like that and neither would I. It was massively disappointing. But I can leave with my head held high. I know how I work.

‘You’re asking the wrong person (about his future). I’ve had those questions since September.’

Heckingbottom admitted he was ‘angry too’ after the heavy defeat but dismissed questions over his future

Until Saturday, Blades supporters had stayed loyal to Heckingbottom after he led them to promotion last season and had to sell his best players in the summer.

But after conceding the opening goal at Turf Moor after 15 seconds and having striker Oli McBurnie sent off, the mood turned ugly amongst the travelling support with the club having taken only five points from 13 games.

Unusually, no top-flight boss has been dismissed yet this season but the Sheffield hierarchy have a major decision to make before Wednesday’s home game against Liverpool.

The sending-off of McBurnie for an elbow when United were trailing 2-0 further angered Heckingbottom. ‘He let me down,’ added the manager.