Sheffield United are 'ready for action' as neutral venue threat removed

United are scheduled to take part in the competition’s first match since March when, following a three month break because of the Covid-19 pandemic, they travel to Aston Villa on June 17.

A win at Villa Park would see Wilder’s squad move to within two points of the Champions League qualification positions with only nine fixtures remaining.

The 52-year-old, who led United to promotion last term, has made no attempt to shield his players from the size of the prize on offer - acknowledging last month that gaining entry to either the CL or the Europa League could “change lives” and “careers.”

“We’ll be ready to go,” Wilder said. “The lads would get back out there tomorrow if they had the chance.

“All they want to do is play football. That’s what they do. That’s what we’re all in this for.

“They’ve been putting it all in to make sure they’ll be sorted when we get back underway.”

Meanwhile, Manchester United have appeared to confirm their meeting with United will be staged at Old Trafford - rather than a neutral venue as initially suggested - later this month.

The Star contacted Greater Manchester Police when reports appeared predicting the clash would be moved amid safety concerns. But GMP’s assistant chief constable insisted his force were happy for it to go ahead as planned providing the local Safety Advisory Group signalled its approval.

Manchester United, who are fifth in the table, stated on their website that United’s visit would be “Our first at the Theatre of Dreams since the memorable derby victory over Manchester City, back on March 8.”

United will face Arsenal in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup on Sunday 28 June (kick-off 1pm), with the tie being selected for live broadcast by BT Sport. Two of United’s opening four PL games will be screened on SKY Tv’s free to air channel Pick.

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