Sheffield United: Revealed - How The Blades will approach tonight's game against Newcastle United

Speaking ahead of the Premier League fixture, which could see his squad move six points clear of the visitors despite only being promoted last term, Wilder said: “This is a competitive division and we want to get out of the traps quickly. Especially at home.”

United adopted a similar approach during last month’s draw with Manchester United, establishing a 2-0 lead before the fixture eventually finished 3-3. They also scored in the second minute of Sunday’s meeting with Wolverhampton Wanderers, which again ended all-square. Despite being labelled as a defensively-minded side by some commentators, it mirrors the game plan which proved so effective in the Championship, as United sought to overwhelm opponents.

Having spoken of his respect for Bruce, who left Sheffield Wednesday to take charge at St James’ Park, Wilder warned Newcastle will pose a threat to United’s unbeaten seven match run.

“They are tough and hard to beat,” he said, reminding that Bruce’s side drew with Manchester City five days ago. “They have settled into a system, that Steve has got, which has made them effective.”