Sheffield United: Chris Wilder backs David McGoldrick to become a key player at Bramall Lane and reveals contract discussions with Simon Moore

Chris Wilder, the Sheffield United manager, believes David McGoldrick's experience will prove invaluable in the Championship next season after awarding the 30-year-old a 12 month contract.
David McGoldrick celebrates his goal against InternazionaleDavid McGoldrick celebrates his goal against Internazionale
David McGoldrick celebrates his goal against Internazionale

McGoldrick, a former Republic of Ireland international, described the opportunity of moving to Bramall Lane as "too good to turn down" after his arrival was confirmed before tonight's friendly against Internazionale.

Wilder, who watched McGoldrick score during the 1-1 draw with the Italian giants, acknowledged United had moved quickly to secure the attacker's signature following talks with several "knowledgeable figures" within the game and a successful trial."I don't give a monkeys where I get my players from," Wilder, confirming he is still searching for a centre-forward, said. "David knows what this division is all about, he's spent most of his career at the top end of it and he'll be able to bring that, including his ability, to the group."We're delighted to be able to bring him in. I've got to say, we've spoken to a lot of people within the game, who know the game inside out; very knowledgeable figures. All of them, to a man, told us to get him in the building because they know the skill and quality he's got."Wilder, who also selected United's new record signing John Egan against Luciano Spalletti's side, was delighted by his team's performance both with and without the ball during the most prestigious fixture of their pre-season preparations."We didn't want it to be an exhibition," he said, revealing McGoldrick's deal could be extended if he reaches his appearance targets. "And they didn't want it to be an exhibition either. They were as good as gold. We wanted to play our game and I thought we did at times, although they've got obvious class. I thought our goal was really well-crafted.""John, I thought was excellent," Wilder continued. "You can see he's going to be a player for us and the same goes for David too. He's got to play a certain number of games to get the extra year and he fits within our wage bracket. Plus, if you ask him, he's chuffed to be here."Although United are continuing their search for more signings ahead of August 4th's meeting with Swansea City - Martyn Waghorn and Ben Woodburn are among their targets - Wilder's squad building plans have received another boost after it emerged Simon Moore is poised to extend his stay in South Yorkshire. The goalkeeper, a second-half substitute against Inter, has been the subject of interest from West Bromwich Albion and is set to become a free agent next summer."We're in discussions with Simon," Wilder said. "We're close and hopefully we'll have something to say about that in the next few days."