Sheffield United identify two potential new manager candidates as Chris Wilder's exit set to be officially confirmed

Although Tindall could prove to be an attractive proposition to take charge until the end of the Premier League season - he is a free agent, after leaving Dean Court last month - Appleton is thought to have impressed associates of United owner HRH Prince Abdullah bin Musa’ad bin Abdulaziz Al Saud with his work at Sincil Bank.

United, who are poised to officially confirm Chris Wilder’s departure before their visit to Leicester City tomorrow, are considering the possibility of making a short term appointment before reviewing the situation this summer.

Twelve points adrift of safety with only 10 matches of the present campaign remaining, United are bracing themselves for relegation back to the Championship two years after Wilder led them into the top-flight.

Appointed in May 2016, Wilder twice led United to promotion during four and a half seasons in charge of his boyhood club. Although results this term have been disappointing, the breakdown of his relationship with United’s board of directors is the major factor behind his exit.

Wilder admitted earlier this month that he was unsure if he would remain in charge beyond May, with United’s refusal to strengthen his injury hit squad during the January transfer window and conditions at their training complex known to be sources of major frustration.