Chris Wilder outlines his hopes for January transfer window after Sheffield United impressive start to Premier League life

United are currently eighth in the top-flight table, level on points with Arsenal and only a point behind Spurs.

And Wilder, speaking ahead of this weekend's clash with Aston Villa, admitted: "It's key that we strengthen in January but it's important that we get balance right and bring players in to strengthen the group.

"January can be a difficult window to work in but we were quite successful last year - Gary Madine and Scott Hogan gave us the boost we needed and we’ll need that this year.

"I've said to the owners that maybe if we were in a different position, to keep their hands in their pockets but now is the time to strengthen.

"Conversations are ongoing about where we can go with that. There's still a lot of football to be played and the league is intense, as we've seen. So it will take its toll on the group.

"We've largely managed to keep the same team and the group that came up, I believe they deserved the opportunity to show me if they can raise their game. And they have done.

"Two or three positions are a little bit light and we need to make sure performances and results aren't affected."

The Blades face Aston Villa at Bramall Lane this weekend.