Sheffield United are wary of the threat posed by a rejuvenated Watford

United have prepared for the match in fifth, after winning seven and drawing seven of their opening 18 games since being promoted earlier this year.

But, hailing the impact Nigel Pearson has made at Vicarage Road after being appointed three weeks ago, Wilder has warned his players the opposition’s troubled start to the campaign does not reflect the depth of quality at the former Sheffield Wednesday captain’s disposal.

Describing Pearson’s side as unfortunate “not to have taken something” from their recent game against leaders Liverpool, Wilder noted: “Watford are a team that creates chances.

“They don’t create half chances. At Anfield, they created proper chances.”

This afternoon’s fixture comes two months after United were held to a goalless draw in Hertfordshire, with Pearson’s predecessor Quique Sanchez Flores adopting an ultra-conservative approach.

But Wilder is anticipating an altogether different type of contest this afternoon, following Watford’s victory over Manchester United last weekend. Troy Deeney, now recovered from injury, scored during that match.

United, who beat Brighton and Hove Albion 24 hours earlier, could parachute John Fleck back into their starting eleven after the midfielder was forced to sit out that game through suspension.

“No game is easy at this level,” Wilder said. “None of them. Especially for a club in our situation, one that’s looking to try and establish itself in the division.”