Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder makes an admission about his FA Cup hopes

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder would love to reach an FA Cup final: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images

Sheffield United have been told that reaching the later stages of the FA Cup will not derail their Premier League season, after Chris Wilder admitted he wants to go as far as possible in the competition.

Speaking ahead of today’s fourth round tie at Millwall, Wilder confirmed he plans to make changes to his starting eleven in order to keep United’s squad fresh for next weekend’s trip to Crystal Palace.

But Wilder, whose side are eighth in the table despite only being promoted last term, believes it is possible for his side to chase success on two fronts.

“We’re in the competition to go as far as possible,” the United manager said. “I’ve been disappointed not to go further in the past, so we’ll see where it takes us.

“We just want to keep winning and get through an extremely tough tie.”

Millwall are eighth in the Championship after unveiling Gary Rowett as Neil Harris’ replacement earlier this term.

Wilder, who has not progressed beyond the fifth round stage since taking charge of United in 2016, said: “Neil was there a few years and worked extremely hard, he got them into the Championship where they finished above us two seasons ago. That run they went on was remarkable.

“Gary is also a really good manager who will change and tinker but not too much.

“He’s worked in the Championship for a number of years, at some really big clubs, and he’s got them pushing for the play-offs which I’m not surprised at.”