Chris Wilder opens up on "difficult" Sheffield United mood as Blades look to keep level heads
Chris Wilder has spoken candidly about the difficult atmosphere surrounding Sheffield United in recent times, insisting his players are giving everything as they look to build on back-to-back wins and maintain their progress ahead of Saturday's trip to Charlton Athletic...
Sydie Peck was the man of the hour at Deepdale and at the final whistle, the Sheffield United hat-trick hero attempted to push Romelle Donovan forward to soak up the acclaim from the travelling support as well. Then, as his players dispersed towards the away dressing room, Chris Wilder stepped forward to thank Unitedites for their support.
The response showed that, despite a surge in what he would call “noise” of late, there remains plenty of support for Wilder as the Blades look to continue their recent upward momentum this weekend.
Yes, the season start wasn’t universally great. Yes, there have been frustrating periods, including one in the first half at Preston North End before United seized control of the game. But only three teams have taken more points from their last six games than United and, ahead of this weekend’s trip to Charlton Athletic, things seem to be going in the right direction.
Wilder has faced questions in recent weeks about an undercurrent of negativity amongst Unitedites. Whether you agree with it or think it’s harsh, it will probably never go away. But another positive result at the Valley this weekend could shift the mood even further over another international break.
“I've got to say it's been a little bit difficult because, at times, you get it,” Wilder admitted. “But that's how it is. There are always opinions on things. Whether it's selection, whether it's formation, whatever it is.
“I get that. But I think what you see from a team that we try and put together is that they give everything. Sometimes they might not be good enough, sometimes they will make mistakes.
“But the group will always have a go and we're working tirelessly to improve the group. And I think people are gradually seeing that.
“I'm fine with it [the criticism]. I'm fine. I'm all right with it. We've just got to keep working away, keep getting our heads down. Not get carried away when we win a game of football, and not taking a wrecking ball to it when we don't get the results that we're after as well.”