Brighton boss tips Chris Wilder to return to management quickly after Sheffield United exit

Wilder, the boyhood Blade who led United from League One to the Premier League during his five-year tenure, left Bramall Lane on Thursday, although the news was only confirmed by United on Friday evening.

U23s coach Paul Heckingbottom will take charge of United for the rest of the season, starting today against Leicester City, assisted by former Bournemouth boss Jason Tindall, Alan Knill and the rest of Wilder's backroom staff.

And Graham Potter the Brighton and Hove Albion boss whose side face United at Bramall Lane next month, described Wilder as "a legend" at United and insisted that his counterpart will not be out of work for long.

"He was the first manager I came across on my return to the UK in a competitive game - my first game at Swansea was at Bramall Lane," Potter told The Argus.

"I got a sense of Chris then – a very competitive guy, but a really good guy as well.

“He’s a good football person and honest.

“The job he has done there speaks for itself, it’s incredible.

“A legend at the club, he has done amazingly there. He won’t be out of work for long.”

Heckingbottom has guided United's U23s to the top of their table, and said: "It is a great honour to be considered to lead this Club until the end of the season and I thank the board for putting their trust in me."

While you're here, please consider taking out a subscription to our new discounted sports-only package. You'll find all the details HERE. Your support is much appreciated. Chris Holt, Football Editor