'Continuity and experience' forcing Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder to be wary of Lincoln City challenge
Chris Wilder has been impressed by Lincoln City’s start to the season as the Blades prepare to take on the Imps at Bramall Lane on Saturday
Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder is far from underestimating Saturday’s opponents Lincoln City after the newly promoted side’s ‘positive start’ to the campaign.
Ahead of United’s return to Bramall Lane after the extended international break, Wilder is looking to spark some form after a disappointing opening couple of months.
Wilder was full of praise for Lincoln, who currently sit 12th in the table, picking up 11 points along the way.
“They've got results playing their way. They've stuck to it. They've committed to it,” Wilder said.
“They are a team that's been put together over two or three years, so when people talk about our team from last year and this year, maybe there's a little bit of an understanding that it isn't just a flick of a switch and everybody just clicks it straight away, especially when you're bringing players in late on in the window,” he added.
The Imps added a range of talent to bolster their options during the transfer window without breaking the bank, including several loans from Premier League sides and experienced EFL full-back Callum Elder.
Despite adding to the squad, Wilder praised Lincoln co-managers Chris Cohen and Tom Shaw for their commitment to their tactics.
“They've had that continuity. They've had that experience. They know the winning feeling and they've carried it on, so it's going to be a tough nut to crack,” Wilder said.
Wilder understands why their fans will be up for their fight, but will be hoping to dampen their hopes for Saturday’s match.
“There'll be a sell-out of away fans, as you imagine, and they'll fancy their chances of getting a result at Bramall Lane. They'll have looked at our previous results as well and think it's a great opportunity for them to go and do that, so never underestimate anybody, especially a team that's won games of football.
“The achievement last year was absolutely outstanding by Lincoln City,” he continued “and they've carried that form and positivity into a new season.”
Lincoln dominated League One last year, and were crowned champions, finishing on 103 points.
After losing just five matches last year, The Imps had the best defence in the division, conceding just 41 goals.