Watch: Today's press conference in full as Sheffield United unveil Chris Wilder as new manager

A whirlwind couple of days saw Nigel Adkins sacked on Thursday morning and Wilder instated within hours, with the former Northampton Town boss having previously held talks over the vacant managerial post at Charlton Athletic.

Adkins' 11-month reign saw United finish in their worst position for over 30 years, while 48-year-old Wilder has just guided the Cobblers to promotion from League Two, after a turbulent campaign which almost saw the club fold.

More on Wilder's appointment

New boss turned down Blackburn Rovers to take up Blades post

What have we learned from the 'Adkins experience'?

James Shield Column: Why Wilder is the right man for the job

Co-owner Kevin McCabe told the press that Wilder is a manager whom he had been tracking for some time and expressed his delight at bringing the Stocksbridge-born boyhood Blade to Bramall Lane.

"(Wilder) is the key person we wanted first and foremost we discussed it very briefly, got onto the case and I'm absolutely delighted that Chris Wilder now joins us," said McCabe.

"He's been a young man on my list for some years past and one that I saw play in Dave Bassett's era and a guy with the background and benefit of understanding the ethos of our club which will play a big part as he takes us forward in the years ahead."

Wilder, who will be joined at the club by Alan Knill as assistant, told of his pride at taking over at United, and thanked the owners for giving him the chance to revive the Blades' fortunes.

"I had a fantastic period at my old club and obviously a very interesting season this season but as soon as the approach was made to my representative the opportunity to lead this proud and historic club, one that I know very well through all sorts of different angles through supporting, through being a ball-boy and playing for the football club was an opportunity I couldn't turn down. I'm delighted and honoured to be the manager and i am grateful for the opportunity from the co-owners to give me the chance to get this club moving in the right direction."

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR THE FULL PRESS CONFERENCE