Sheffield United: Early Blades return for John Brayford and Marc McNulty isn't ruled out

Wilder allowed both players to depart on season long loans earlier this term with McNulty, the former Livingston centre-forward, joining League One rivals Bradford City and Brayford heading to Championship club Burton Albion.

But, revealing preparations for the forthcoming transfer window are already underway, Wilder confirmed: “We’ve got an option in our favour in terms of both boys. So decisions will be made. A lot of things can change between now and January; injuries, suspensions, loss of form and such like. So we’ll be flexible with those boys and also the boys we are looking to maybe bring to the football club from outside.”

Although McNulty and Brayford would prefer to stay put - Albion manager Nigel Clough is keen, finances permitting, to strike a permanent deal for the defender - Wilder insisted United’s interests must come first.

“You have to be pretty flexible in terms of what you might need,” he said. “We’re working within a budget and we will work within what might be available if anything is available. Because it’s not right to assume its just going to be there.

“There is work going on, definitely. We need to get to January in a good position and good nick. The race starts in the second half of the season. That’s where the race really starts.”