Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder reveals what pleased him most after Blades book place in fourth round of FA Cup by beating AFC Fylde

Chris Wilder was pleased that his Sheffield United side learned the lesson of the previous season, as they beat AFC Fylde on Sunday to progress into the fourth round of the FA Cup.
By Danny Hall
Published 6th Jan 2020, 11:45 BST
Updated 6th Jan 2020, 17:24 BST
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Manager Wilder saw his Blades side dumped out of the competition, again at home, to National League Barnet at the same stage last year.

It was a rare low point in an otherwise memorable season that ended in promotion.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Wilder made 11 changes to his Blades side after a tough festive period saw his side travel to Manchester City and Liverpool for back-to-back top-flight games.

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder during the FA Cup third round match at Bramall Lane, Sheffield. Tim Goode/PA Wire.Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder during the FA Cup third round match at Bramall Lane, Sheffield. Tim Goode/PA Wire.
Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder during the FA Cup third round match at Bramall Lane, Sheffield. Tim Goode/PA Wire.

The cup draw paired United with National League opposition again in AFC Fylde, but United’s safe passage was secured thanks to goals from Callum Robinson and Leon Clarke.

Fylde ensured a tense finish when Jordan Williams netted a fine lob with 12 minutes left and Wilder said: "These games are so awkward, especially when you make as many changes as we did.

“There is never going to be the same flow as at first-team level.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"But it was all about attitude and I thought the attitude of the players was great.

“They smelt an upset towards the end but we saw it through.

"I thought we were comfortable but they made it difficult for us. I feel relieved after what happened last year.

"I really didn't enjoy what happened last year, despite it being a fantastic season for the football club - one of the best we ever had.

“But that was a real low point, we didn't deserve to go through last year.

“We did today."

Related topics:Chris WilderBladesAFC FyldeNational LeagueLeon ClarkeManchester City

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.