Sheffield United: Chris Wilder reacts to Manchester United loanee Dean Henderson's mistake in defeat to Liverpool, says Blades missed an opportunity to beat European champions

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder admitted that Dean Henderson ‘needs to be better’ after his costly mistake in this afternoon’s 1-0 defeat to Liverpool at Bramall Lane.
Leon Clarke missed a golden chance for the Blades after coming off the bench: Simon Bellis/SportimageLeon Clarke missed a golden chance for the Blades after coming off the bench: Simon Bellis/Sportimage
Leon Clarke missed a golden chance for the Blades after coming off the bench: Simon Bellis/Sportimage

The on-loan Manchester United man allowed Gini Wijnaldum’s volley to slip through his hands and over the line for what proved to be the winning goal.

United had plenty of chances of their own to go ahead, with Callum Robinson, John Fleck and sub Leon Clarke all missing good opportunities against the European champions.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

And afterwards Wilder said of Henderson: “If he wants to be a professional footballer, these things are going to happen,” said Wilder.

"But if he wants to play for the top teams, he wants to play for England then he needs to do better.

“He needs to concentrate more. It’s a disappointing day for him. I am not going to put my arms around him. Simply he needs to do better."

The 1-0 result condemned United to their third home defeat of the season, while most of their points have come away from Bramall Lane. Next up for the Blades is a trip to Watford next weekend.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"I am not bothered about pride, I am bothered about the result,” Wilder added.

"Liverpool had an off day and I think we missed an opportunity. In pressurised situations, we need to remain composed.

"We were delighted with the shape but their chances came from our mistakes.

"We have had big moments in the game but we did not take them, we had to jump all over it and we didn't.

"We had enough to get something out of this game but we did not take our opportunities. Points are the most important thing and we did not get points we deserved today."

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.