Sheffield United: Wilder throws down the gauntlet...towards himself

Chris Wilder has challenged himself to get more out of Sheffield United's squad next season after suggesting too many players under-performed last season.
New captain Billy Sharp (right) celebrates with Marc McNulty after scoring for Sheffield United last seasonNew captain Billy Sharp (right) celebrates with Marc McNulty after scoring for Sheffield United last season
New captain Billy Sharp (right) celebrates with Marc McNulty after scoring for Sheffield United last season

Wilder took charge of the League One club when predecessor Nigel Adkins was axed after leading it to an 11th placed finish last term.

Despite preparing to embark upon a major recruitment drive this summer - a centre-half and targetman top his wanted list - the United manager said: “Absolutely, there are players here we think we can get more out of. There are players who were on their way out who we’ve dragged back in and vice versa.

Matt Done could be handed a key role by Chris Wilder 
©2016 Sport Image all rights reservedMatt Done could be handed a key role by Chris Wilder 
©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved
Matt Done could be handed a key role by Chris Wilder ©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved
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“There’s Chris Basham, who at the very least should be playing at the top end of this division or the Championship. We have to get the best out of John Brayford, out of Stefan Scougall, Marc McNulty, Che Adams and Matty Done.”

Wilder’s first act after arriving at Bramall Lane was to name Billy Sharp, who scored 21 goals in 48 appearances under Adkins, as United’s new captain.

Elaborating further on the decision, Wilder said: “The only one, without being rude, who has stood out all season is Billy. He produces, he’s led from the front and done what it says on the tin. He wants a promotion with his hometown club and he knows the club. Those are just some of the reasons why we have made him captain.”

United began their close season makeover by signing former Birmingham City midfielder Mark Duffy and Bury defender Chris Hussey last week.