Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder makes a joke about John Fleck's 'twin brother Jimmy'

Chris Wilder has welcomed the return to form of key players, including midfield trio John Fleck, Oliver Norwood and John Lundstram, as Sheffield United prepare for a run of games set to decide their Premier League future.
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Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s meeting with West Bromwich Albion, which could see his team take a crucial step towards hauling itself off the bottom of the table, Wilder expressed delight at the fact some of his most influential performers are beginning to find their feet following chequered starts to the campaign.

Fleck, who yesterday revealed he broke his back on international duty with Scotland earlier this term, has been a driving force behind United’s improved results in recent weeks - impressing during wins over Newcastle and Manchester United before also earning praise for his display during Saturday’s narrow defeat by Manchester City.

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“John is back playing again,” Wilder said. “His brother Jimmy seemed to be with us for a couple of months, but John is back with us now. Jimmy has returned home to Glasgow or the Highlands League or wherever he’s playing.

Chris Wilder, the manager of Sheffield United: Simon Bellis/SportimageChris Wilder, the manager of Sheffield United: Simon Bellis/Sportimage
Chris Wilder, the manager of Sheffield United: Simon Bellis/Sportimage

“Seriously, without joking about it, John is a big, big player for us. He’s a major influence for us in terms of what we’ve achieved in the past and what we’re trying to achieve going forward.

“For him to be back in form now, that’s also vital for what we’re trying to do. We were hoping John would come back to form a little bit quicker than he did and he’ll accept that himself. But it’s good to see him, Oli and John all making strides.”

Despite their upturn in fortunes of late, United have prepared for the clash with West Brom four points behind Sam Allardyce’s 19th placed side and 13 adrift of safety.

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“We’ve got to try and make it as uncomfortable as possible for those above us,” Wilder said. “Even psychologically that’s important.

Sheffield United's John Fleck is back in form: Nick Potts/PA Wire.Sheffield United's John Fleck is back in form: Nick Potts/PA Wire.
Sheffield United's John Fleck is back in form: Nick Potts/PA Wire.

"We need everybody available and firing on all cylinders to get the results we want and we need. I think everybody appreciates that. So to see these lads coming back to what we know they can do, that’s great to see. It’s got to continue.”

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