Sheffield United home form admission ahead of Derby County clash
Wilder has said he wants an atmosphere that mirrors United’s victory against Derby County on Boxing Day 2018
Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has insisted that Bramall Lane must be a tough place for visitors ahead of Saturday’s clash against Derby County.
United host Derby in the early kick-off, providing an opportunity to secure back-to-back wins for the first time this season.
Derby currently sit 23rd in the Championship table and have suffered injury woe so far this season, recently fielding a makeshift back line.
The Blades were defeated by the Rams at Bramall Lane last season for the first time since 2011 but Wilder has claimed his side are ‘in a good place’ to continue the consistency in performance the players have shown since the international break in front of their own fans.
The Blades boss said, “We have to have a strong home record in front of our supporters. That's where the majority are, and if we want to have an extended season, then we have to be strong and consistent at home.
“If you want an extended season, we're going to have to win a chunk of games at home, and we want to be strong at our home. Players enjoy playing there. Hopefully we can get the performance and the result right.”
He added: “I believe that we've shown a bit of consistency. We're growing. There's a belief amongst the players, and hopefully that can transfer into the stands, but it only transfers into the stands if we produce a front-footed performance.”
When referencing the Lane’s fantastic atmosphere during United’s 3-1 victory against the Rams on Boxing Day 2018, Wilder replied. “That's exactly the feeling that I want.”
“It was a great afternoon for us, for support. It was an edgy game, and we showed a lot of qualities,” he continued.
Derby striker Carlton Morris scored a hat-trick at Bramall Lane last season, which saw the game finish 3-1 after O’Hare clawed one back in the 73rd minute.
“Last season was a tough one to take.”
“There's always the proximity of it. One of our closest, if not closest, games now. So, similar clubs, working-class clubs. And always been a really competitive game on and off the pitch.”