Chris Wilder sends a message to Sheffield United's supporters amidst Blades' European pursuit

The Blades manager sparked some debate after the draw at Brighton when he commented on the number of red seats that could be seen as he led his players on their customary lap of Bramall Lane after every game.

That result, a 1-1 draw, took United to 40 points but also generated some frustration amongst fans, with the Blades now looking a lot higher than simply surviving in the Premier League.

In the build-up to Saturday's win over Norwich, Wilder clarified that his comments were simply an observation, rather than a criticism.

And, speaking after Billy Sharp's header consolidated United's push for European qualification, Wilder said: "The connection between the fans and players was right up there, as it always has been from my period of time here.

"We try to connect everybody in to give ourselves the best opportunity. Going into the last 20, 25 minutes they [Norwich] were taking chances and we were having to dig really deep.

"The players have been magnificent but the supporters are inspiring the players as well. When it’s like this, at its rocking best, noisy, intimidating in a good way, not allowing the opposition an easy ride and giving full support to the players... then, walking off the pitch at the end, there is nowhere I would rather be."

United are seventh ahead of Saturday's trip to Newcastle, and trail fifth-placed Manchester United by two points - albeit with a game in hand.