Chris Wilder reveals options for Leon Clarke’s Sheffield United departure; updates on future of Jake Wright, Kean Bryan

Clarke has fallen down the pecking order at Bramall Lane and has been deemed surplus to requirements as the Blades look to consolidate their position in the Premier League.

The striker was recently handed the captain’s armband – and scored what proved to be the winning goal – as United beat AFC Fylde in the third-round of the FA Cup.

Wilder dismissed the notion that the gesture was a romantic one aimed at thanking Clarke for his service, but the veteran striker is expected to depart Bramall Lane – either in this window or the summer.

Kean Bryan could also depart on loan in this current window, and Wilder believes it is a case of ‘sooner the better’ in terms of United's departing players.

“There is obvious interest in the boys going out,” he said, “and it’s a case of quicker the better for their sakes, for the likes of Kean and Leon.

“There’s an opportunity for Kean to go out on loan, Ben Heneghan has gone out on loan and Jake Wright will go out this window, too. The quicker those bits get done, the better for everyone involved.”

Wilder revealed Clarke could either leave on loan this window, or United could offer him a settlement to tear up his contract – allowing him to join another club on a permanent deal.

“The financials will be done either way with the chief exec [Stephen Bettis] and Carl Shieber,” Wilder added.

“It’s important Leon gets some football. He’s been outstanding for us and he’d be a perfect January signing for someone.

“I’m sure he’ll add value to a team going forward.”