'No doubt the statue will be built one day' - Sheffield United fans react to Chris Wilder's "class" statement over Blades exit

Wilder thanked United's supporters and players for their backing during his near-five-year reign at Bramall Lane, admitting he is “immensely proud” of having the chance to manage his boyhood club and lead United from League One into the Premier League.

“When I walked back into Bramall Lane, in May 2016, having been given the chance to manage the club I’d supported all my life, who could have predicted the next four-and-a-half years?" he said in the statement.

"It has been some journey and one I’m immensely proud of."

Revealed: The lengths Jack O'Connell is going to to accelerate his Sheffield United recovery

Here's how a selection of Blades fans reacted on Twitter...

@shane_robshaw: Chris Wilder thank you for your service, we’ve had a blast

@tyronej1984: Class statement by Wilder. Expected nothing less. No doubt that statue will be built one day. The final line drawn under a truly brilliant era, and now, we move on.

@sufc_proctor: Something in my eye. We won’t ever have another manager like him. Will always be a legend and IMO always a stupid mistake allowing him to leave. Chris Wilder, the best

@shawberryfields: Good that he hasnt got into a slanging match with the owner...not even a response to what PA has said

@Annies_song_: Class from CW but didn’t expect anything less

Billy Sharp to miss rest of Sheffield United's season after undergoing surgery

@GazzaUTB1889: Class as always Chris! All the best in your next venture! Unless it’s Wednesday. UTB

@LeePittsy: A lot classier than the statement given by the club, that’s why he’ll always have my support.

@marshblade: What a true BLADE ...can he be replaced?

@daneshaw8: Great statement from CW. Now can we move on, get behind the next manager and stop the sly little digs. Football managers come and go, the man and his achievements won’t ever be forgotten. Onto the next chapter...

@senornunes: Some managers can and do leave clubs with the good wishes of every fan for the incredible journey they have been taken on. 100 per cent sure that is the case for Blades fans. Good luck to Chris Wilder in whatever comes next, he did a terrific job at Sheff Utd.

@JackSufc10: Cheers Chris, crying again

While you're here, please consider taking out a subscription to our new discounted sports-only package. You'll find all the details HERE. Your support is much appreciated. Chris Holt, Football Editor