Sheffield United: Chris Basham reveals the Manchester City legend he has been tasked with modelling his game on ahead of Premier League season

And, ahead of the big kick-off, defender Chris Basham has revealed that he has been tasked with modelling his game on a top-flight legend; former Manchester City defender Vincent Kompany.

“The way he brings the ball out, his overall communication, which has gone out of the game a bit, but [that is what] the manager wants to see,” Basham revealed, in an interview with The Athletic.

“We had an interview the other day where four boys were asked to describe him [Wilder] in one word. We all called him a legend.

“We admire his background, managing in lower leagues and we all have trophies, medals and open-top bus tours because of his work.”

Basham, who worked in McDonald’s after being released as a youngster by Newcastle, is preparing for his first proper experience of the top-flight after bit-part experiences with Bolton and Blackpool.

“Sitting here, thinking where I have come from, doing those night shifts in here, I never thought I could make it as a top player,” Basham added.

“I still get jitters and shivers thinking about it. I feel like I’ve gone back in time sitting here with you. I can’t put it into words. It is overwhelming, shocking, amazing.

“It’s all pinch-yourself. I will – hopefully – finally play at St James’ Park in a Premier League match for the first time.

“I speak to Peter Beardsley, who was my coach in the Newcastle academy, and he says, ‘If I had anything to do with it, you would never have left.’ He writes me notes saying how proud he is of me.”