'I don't think my players should be criticised' says Sheffield United boss ahead of Tottenham clash

The Blades have lost three of their four games since the Premier League was given the green light to restart, and drew the other at Aston Villa.

United have not yet returned to their free-flowing best since lockdown was eased, although there were some signs of the United of old in their FA Cup quarter-final against Arsenal on Sunday.

And, speaking ahead of Thursday's Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur at Bramall Lane, Wilder said: "The players have been on a brilliant journey and I don't think they should be criticised, honestly I don't.

"They are the ones who have raised the expectation level. No-one else has raised the bar, it's been down to their hard work

"What should we have done, chucked some games in and been halfway down the table or down in 17th or 18th where people expected us to be?

"Of course not, but we are a million miles ahead of where we should be. We are having a bit of a struggle at the minute but there needs to be some perspective. I'm quite confident of where we are at."

United must wait to discover the extent of John Lundstram's injury, after the midfielder went off in the first half with a damaged shoulder. His replacement, £22m record signing Sander Berge, was excellent, and is in contention to start against Arsenal's North London rivals.

An important message: Thank you for reading this story. The dramatic events of 2020 are having a major impact on our advertisers and thus our revenues. The Star is more reliant than ever on you taking out a digital subscription to support our journalism. You can subscribe here www.thestar.co.uk/subscriptions for unlimited access to Sheffield news and information online. Every subscription helps us continue providing trusted, local journalism and campaign on your behalf for our city. Take care, and stay safe. Danny