Paul Heckingbottom's reaction as Sheffield United go back top after Reading rout

In a game which pitted first against second in the early weeks of the season, United passed that particular test with flying colours against a Royals side who travelled north on the back of three wins in their last three games.

Anel Ahmedhodzic stole the show with a brace, the defender taking his tally in United colours to three since signing in the summer, while Oli McBurnie and Iliman Ndiaye both continued their good recent form with a goal in each half as United ran riot.

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Next up for United is another high-flier in the early table as they travel to Hull City this weekend and Heckingbottom said: "From start to finish it was pretty dominant.

"I'm pleased with it, pleased with the players and how they performed. It was strong."

Heckingbottom was able to rest a number of key players, with both McBurnie and Ndiaye making way early and Tommy Doyle, making an impressive full debut, and George Baldock being replaced.

"We've got more missing. I want more options," Heckingbottom added.

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"It was great to take Iliman and Oli off when they started flagging a little bit and inject energy with Reda [Khadra] and Rhian [Brewster].

"Then Bash [Chris Basham] for George - we've not had that replacement for George but with Bash we know we've got that.

"Macca [James McAtee] came on for Tommy and showed his qualities but we'll be even better when we get the other boys back."

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