Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder breaks his silence on transfers following owner's remarks

After making a series of recommendations to Bramall Lane’s board of directors before Christmas, which included moves for Jesse Lingard and Ben Davies, Wilder discovered towards the end of last month that the two loan deals he was under the impression United could broker were no longer available.

HRH Prince Abdullah bin Musa’ad bin Abdulaziz Al Saud confirmed earlier this week that, while he wants Wilder to remain in charge next term regardless of the division United find themselves in, directors elected against bolstering the options at the 53-year-old’s disposal because of concerns about their position in the table and concerns about last January’s recruitment record - when Panos Retsos and Richairo Zivkovic struggled for opportunities.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s game against Chelsea, Wilder acknowledged that while he “respected” the hierarchy’s decision, it could leave United in a vulnerable position moving forward as they attempt to claw back the 11 point gap separating them from safety.

“Money, it’s all about opinions, “Wilder said. “Whether it’s pundits, fans, players out of the side and owners.

“I put my recommendations to the board regarding strengthening in January, with a couple of deals.

“As much as I respect other people's opinions, I think people should also respect mine. I respect the owner’s opinion, as I’m sure he respects mine. I get on with my job. I’m a big boy. I know things don’t always go your way.”

Manchester United’s Jesse Lingard, who ultimately joined West Ham on loan, was among the names Wilder had identified as a potential target. Like the England midfielder, former Preston North End centre-half Ben Davies is another player thought to have held positive talks with agents acting on Wilder’s behalf before Liverpool lured him away from Deepdale.

“I don’t do anything personal,” Wilder said. “I do it to try and help the group. I’m not a yes man. I don’t agree with everything and I don’t agree with this one.

“But I do my job and move on. If I look back at the amount of kicks in the b***s these boys have had this season, that’s why I get on with it. Their confidence, their fight and their belief is mirrored by mine.”

United enter the meeting with Thomas Tuchel’s side at the bottom of the table but having won five of their last seven outings in all competitions, despite seeing their squad ravaged by injury. Although Ben Osborn could return to face Chelsea, Enda Stevens (calf) and George Baldock (hamstring) are doubts, while Jack O’Connell (knee) and Sander Berge (hamstring) are long-term absentees.

"The way these lads keep on going, I can't speak highly enough of them, really I can't," Wilder added. "They just kjeep on going, and fighting, no matter what."

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