Chris Wilder "delighted" over Dominic Calvert-Lewin's progress ahead of Sheffield United's clash with Everton

Calvert-Lewin joined Everton from the Blades in September 2016 as a raw striker, but has since developed into one of the most potent forwards in the Premier League.

He returns to Bramall Lane on Boxing Day with 11 goals in his 14 games so far this season and as a full England international, scoring twice in his five caps for Gareth Southgate's side to date.

And Wilder, who also worked with Calvert-Lewin during a loan spell at Northampton Town prior to taking over at Bramall Lane, said: "I'm delighted for Dom.

"I know a lot about him because I had him on loan and the time of the move was a difficult one for us to hold on to him.

"But opportunities have opened up for him and he's taken them, at international level as well.

"I'm delighted he has as well, he's a Sheffield boy and someone who thinks a lot about this club.

"It's been great to watch his progression over the last two or three years."

Everton assistant manager Davide Ancelotti described the Sheffield-born striker as a "special player" ahead of his return to his home city.

“He has fantastic abilities," Ancelotti added.

"Game-by-game you can see his improvement and how he is able to make the difference in this league. It’s not easy to make the difference... But Dominic is able to impress from this point of view.”

Thank you for reading this article, one of dozens we publish every single day to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative coverage of YOUR club. This depth of Blades coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to from the football team at The Star, 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