Norwich City boss lauds 'outstanding' Sheffield United & reveals whether he'll shake Chris Wilder's hand amid Coronavirus concerns

Norwich City manager Daniel Farke has spoken highly of Sheffield United and their manager, ahead of his side's trip to Bramall Lane on Saturday.
(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, via the club's official website, the German coach gave a glowing review of the Blades' stunning 2019/20 campaign so far, and said: "I'm full of respect for what Sheffield United and Chris Wilder have done.

"They do an outstanding job, but you can't compare them with us because we have a different approach and philosophy."

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He continued: "We've played them several times over recent years and they more or less play the same approach, but they know

what we want to do. They know us perhaps better than any other coach on this level. Each game is close and it's always difficult.

"They were already solid in defending last season and Chris has stuck to those players. I'm not jealous but he's a bit lucky they

have always been available. He's stuck with the same back three and wing backs, so they're used to playing with each other."

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The 43-year-old also gave an insight into his friendship with Wilder, and revealed: "It wasn't love on the first view with Chris Wilder, but sometimes after that the biggest love develops! We're both full of respect.

"There's no book on how to be successful in football. We have quite a good relationship and we're quite often in touch with complimentary text messages."

Going on to address the recent ban on handshakes between players, amid the Coronavirus epidemic, Farke insisted: "I will definitely shake hands with Chris Wilder. We trust the specialists on Coronavirus and don't want to panic too much.

"It's probably the right decision to not shake hands before kick-off, even though everyone probably will afterwards."

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Meanwhile, Wilder told the Star: "I love a firm handshake. I'm not fist-bumping anyone!"

"Others will have different ideas. I'm not one to shake everyone's hand in the morning and welcome them to work - having signs saying 'welcome to work' and stuff like that - but when someone needs a handshake, they'll get a firm one from me."