Chris Wilder says Sheffield United rediscovered their "identity" in victory over Newcastle United

Wilder’s men picked up their first three points of the season at the 18th time of asking, taking them to five in total.

But against Newcastle, and buoyed by victory in the FA Cup at Bristol Rovers last weekend, United looked more like the side that took the Premier League by storm last season, even if they did need a penalty given after a VAR review to break down the 10-men visitors, who showed no ambition whatsoever after Ryan Fraser’s red card late in the first half.

United were full value for a victory that Wilder hopes will kickstart a bid for survival, and admitted afterwards: "I thought we were in control and confident on the ball and pushed it and it was a deserved win.

"It looked like we got our identity back.

"I thought the performance was really good. I know the sending-off will be talked about, making it easier for us, but I thought in the first half it was coming even before that.

"I felt we had an identity and it was us with the handbrake off, going for it and playing well in and out of possession.

"I'm delighted with the performance and it is a big result for the players and supporters obviously, given the length of time we haven't had a win.

"The key now is to take it forward, we can't waste it. We've got an incredible challenge ahead of us, but if we can make it competitive..."