Sheffield United: Chris Wilder reveals what is going on with Kean Bryan

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has provided an update on Kean Bryan's fitness.
Sheffield United defender Kean BryanSheffield United defender Kean Bryan
Sheffield United defender Kean Bryan

The defender is still waiting to make his first senior appearance since leaving Manchester City during the summer transfer window.

But Bryan is now poised to begin challenging for selection after recovering from illness.

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Revealing he contemplated naming the 21-year-old in the development squad which travels to Sheffield Wednesday tonight, Wilder said: "Kean was close to playing in that one. He's back training full-time though so that's good.

"Obviously there's processes he has to go through but he's moving forward now. We're trying to get a behind-closed-doors game sorted next week and, if we do, then the idea is he'll be involved in that."

Coutts set to return:

Another long-term absentee, Paul Coutts, will take part at Hillsborough after entering the final phase of his recovery from a broken leg. The midfielder, who has not played for nearly 12 months, could return to action within a fortnight providing he does not suffer any complications at Hillsborough.

Kean Bryan joined Sheffield United from Manchester CityKean Bryan joined Sheffield United from Manchester City
Kean Bryan joined Sheffield United from Manchester City

"Couttsy has cleared his hurdles," he said. "They've been put in front of him but he's come through. "So really, the only one out is Jake Wright and he's working really hard."

Wilder's big bet:

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Wright, the former Oxford and Halifax centre-half, has suffered a catalogue of mishaps after reporting for duty over the summer. After suffering a serious facial injury during a pre-season friendly at Stocksbridge Park Steels, he was then diagnosed with a back problem by Bramall Lane's medical staff. However, Wright is understood to have taken part in some light sessions at the Steelphalt Academy this week.

"Everyone knows the character he's got," Wilder said. "So, when he's okay, no one will be betting against him forcing his way into the team."