Chris Wilder hopes Sheffield United will get a boost when Jack O'Connell returns to Shirecliffe from Dubai training break

Chris Wilder hopes that the imminent return of Jack O'Connell to Sheffield United's training base will give a much-needed boost to his players as they look to turn their season around.
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O'Connell went under the knife earlier this season to correct a long-standing knee injury, but the surgery is expected to keep him out of the entire campaign.

The defender has been a huge miss for United, who are still looking for their first win of the season, and recently flew abroad to continue his rehabilitation, working with a personal trainer in Dubai.

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And Wilder, speaking ahead of Saturday's trip to Crystal Palace, said: "Jack is on a mini-break because he's worked extremely hard.

"He'll be back with us soon and crack on, and the sight of Jack at Shirecliffe will hopefully be a boost for us all."

Wilder revealed that Sander Berge is in the "early part of his recovery" after an operation to repair his damaged hamstring, and he has a couple of knocks to contend with from Tuesday's 1-0 defeat at Burnley.

United reported "a number" of positive Covid-19 tests ahead of kick-off at Burnley, although the identities of the players and staff members concerned have not been officially confirmed.

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Oli McBurnie, Billy Sharp and Phil Jagielka, who missed the game at Turf Moor, are not expected to return for the trip to Selhurst Park.

Jack O'Connell has been a huge loss for Sheffield United in the Premier League this season: Simon Bellis/SportimageJack O'Connell has been a huge loss for Sheffield United in the Premier League this season: Simon Bellis/Sportimage
Jack O'Connell has been a huge loss for Sheffield United in the Premier League this season: Simon Bellis/Sportimage

"We won't have anyone back for the weekend who missed out at Burnley," Wilder said.

"And we have one or two knocks from that game too, so just waiting on those. I won't name them."

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