Sheffield United: Here's what Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce has had to say about Chris Wilder

The former Wednesday and United boss brings his Newcastle United side to Bramall Lane tomorrow night in buoyant mood after holding Premier League champions Manchester City to a 2-2 draw at St James Park on Saturday.

But Bruce, who left the Owls in the summer to replace Rafa Benitez at the Magpies, acknowledges his side will come up against a Blades outfit packed with ‘energy and drive’ and singled out Chris Wilder for special praise.

He said: “I’m delighted when someone like him is doing so well. He’s earned his spurs in the lower divisions and finally got his chance. He’s had to take his home-town team from League One into the Premier League but he’s taken that swagger into the Premier League.”

A win for Wilder’s men could take them back into the top six if results go their way during this round of midweek matches and the Newcastle manager says he is not surprised the Blades have enjoyed a flying start to the campaign.

“The energy and the drive the team have, which obviously comes from the top, is no surprise,” said Bruce. “It’s no surprise that they’re making a fist of it in the Premier League. They’re a very, very decent side with good players.”

Newcastle sit in 14th place but are only three points behind the Blades in the table.

Injured duo Andy Carroll and DeAndre Yedlin could both be involved for the Magpies if they come through today’s training unscathed.