Sheffield United: Wilder explains tough approach

Wilder’s admission that United’s first team squad will be “taken out of their comfort zone” before the new League One campaign has prompted concerns that injuries could overshadow his plans for August 6th’s opener against Bolton Wanderers.

But, dismissing those suggestions, the United manager said: “You can’t worry about them (injuries) because, if you did, then you’d never train properly. We’re sensible, don’t worry about that, but we also understand the importance of hard work. Football isn’t easy and so training shouldn’t be either.”

Wilder revealed he is prepared to make concessions by acknowledging some players, including John Brayford, will be spared the brunt of his no-nonsense methods. The former Cardiff City and Derby County defender has only recently recovered from a calf complaint.

“People will be allowed to sit some (sessions) out,” Wilder said. “When it’s the right thing to do for them and us.”