West Ham boss David Moyes explains why Sheffield United's start to life back in the Premier League is no fluke - even if he didn't see it coming

The West Ham boss takes his side to Bramall Lane tonight to face the Blades, who can go up to fifth with a victory over the Hammers.

Chris Wilder has led United to two promotions since arriving at his boyhood club, and will be looking to consolidate their position in the top-flight table tonight.

And Moyes, who took over from Manuel Pellegrini late last year, admitted: "I have to say I didn't see their success coming immediately in Premier League.

"But I shouldn't have been surprised because the manager's done a brilliant job.

"They've all come up from the lower leagues and shown that they can play in the Premier League, and I think that comes from having a really good team and manager, and they all know what's expected from them.

"I quite enjoy seeing managers who have to earn their stripes, prove themselves in the lower leagues, and then they move up.

"It's not a fluke, and that's why we shouldn't be surprised with how well Sheffield United have done."

Moyes’ respect for United was echoed by one of his players, Robert Snodgrass.

“They’re a great team, they’re a very good side, a very good bunch of lads with a top manager,” Snodgrass said.

“It’s another test where we must match them for work-rate, desire and application because, listen, they don’t leave anything out there, they give everything.”