Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder praises 'leader' Jack Robinson after Derby County move
Wilder has praised ex skipper Robinson after Derby move
Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder was full of praise for ex-Blade Jack Robinson after the defender signed for Derby County this week.
Robinson, who made 162 appearances for United from 2020 to 2025, was announced as a Derby player on October 17 on a short-term contract whilst the Rams battle with their injury crisis.
He played 15 matches for Birmingham City last season, but wasn’t offered another deal for the current season.
The defender is currently regaining fitness, and Derby gaffer John Eustace has confirmed that he won’t be available against United on Saturday.
Chris Wilder admitted that he admired his leadership during his time at Bramall Lane.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Wilder said, “Jack did well for me in periods that weren't so good. I always remember the punters singing his name around the grounds when we were coming out in the Premier League the second time.”
“It's a mixed one with the supporters really,” he continued. “Sometimes I scratch my head a little bit because for me, Jack gave everything to be part of a team that up until Christmas had the fourth, fifth best defensive record in Europe; his partnership with Harry Souttar was outstanding.”
Robinson’s contract was terminated in the summer of 2025 under Rubén Sellés’ tenure.
“You need a Jack Robinson in and around your football club. We had a leadership group, and I wanted an older one to be part of that group, a boy in the middle, and a younger player, and I put it over to the players. Jack, unanimously, was voted into that leadership group.”
“I was delighted that the players picked Jack for that role.”
“I think it's like when you get players’ player of the year, you know,” he added.
“I’m a massive believer in a strong changing room, massive believer in big characters in the changing room. Different opinions as well; we want to be challenged. We want to be pushed back. But it's not for the benefit of the player; it's the benefit of the team and the football club.”