'Not hurt at all' - Chris Wilder's reaction as Sheffield United are held to a 1-1 draw at home to Brighton and Hove Albion

The Blades had to settle for a point against the Seagulls on their return to Premier League action, in the first of 12 games which will prove definitive in their pursuit of European football.

Wilder's men had spent their winter break in Dubai, while their rivals had failed to stamp any authority on or make any notable headway in their absence in the race for the Champions League spots.

It looked like they were on their way to matching Chelsea's win against Tottenham earlier in the day when Enda Stevens blasted them in front. However, Neal Maupay, a summer transfer target for the Blades, quickly equalised.

The hosts dominated the second half but were unable to find a winning goal and Wilder admitted: “It's only a very, very slight tinge of disappointment, that's all that is. The players couldn't have given me anything more and couldn't have done anything more. The drive was brilliant.

"It was disappointing, obviously, to concede after going in front. We found a way two weeks ago against Bournemouth but unfortunately today we couldn't find a way.

"I thought we moved the ball around really well and I enjoyed watching my team play. I said to the players I was absolutely delighted with what I saw. A draw doesn't hurt me at all.

"I said before the game this wouldn't be easy. I know how tactically astute Graham (Potter) is and how good his team is. They will be pleased with a draw - as we were pleased to win at their place after they had most of the ball.

"It's one defeat in 20 or so Premier League matches - taking Liverpool and Manchester City out of it. Consistent performances. It was a good performance after us being away on the winter break."

Stevens opened the scoring after 26 minutes with a superb strike from the left side of the penalty area, arrowing the ball into the top corner after taking a touch to steady himself. However, the Republic of Ireland international had to go off at half-time with an injury.