Sheffield United: Jack O'Connell reveals his pride at making his 100th consecutive league start for the Blades against Blackburn - and how he's played through the pain barrier to do so
O'Connell has established himself firmly as a fans' favourite since moving to United from Brentford in 2016, and passes another important milestone this afternoon against Tony Mowbray's side.
And, speaking in United's official matchday programme, the 24-year-old said: "I'm proud to have made 100 consecutive starts, especially with the majority of them coming in the Championship.
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Hide Ad"You have to keep yourself physically fit, but that only comes with hard work during pre-season and throughout the year on the training ground."
Asked about the biggest hurdle to overcome to reach the milestone, O'Connell said: "Suspensions are probably the biggest problem but I've been pretty lucky, I suppose. I've had a few bookings this season but thankfully I've never looked like being banned.
"Hopefully I've not jinxed that! This season I've played through quite a few injuries, on more than one occasion, when people didn't know about them. I'm not one to look for sympathy, though. I'd have to have a broken leg not to be out there!"