Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder makes a claim about his club's fans ahead of West Ham clash

Chris Wilder has told his squad to imagine what the atmosphere would be like inside Bramall Lane if Sheffield United supporters were allowed to attend this weekend’s game against West Ham, after several launched social media campaigns to help the team recover from its difficult start to the new Premier League season.
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United enter Sunday’s meeting with David Moyes’ side at the bottom of the table after losing seven and drawing one of their opening eight matches.

With games still being staged behind closed doors due to social distancing measures imposed because of the Covid-19 pandemic, The Star has revealed how one lifelong United follower is asking his fellow fans to post photographs on an online platform highlighting their favourite moments of the past four years to try and “get behind the players” as they attempt to record their first win of the campaign.

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Wilder, a lifelong supporter of the club himself, welcomed the move after revealing he has held a number of meetings, designed to improve morale, during the international break.

“There’s no issue with people being disappointed, because we’re all disappointed at the minute,” Wilder said, confirming the get-togethers have triggered a “noticeable” upturn in mood behind the scenes. “But I know 100 per cent, if there was a crowd in there on Sunday, what the atmosphere would be like. I understand what they’ve given to us and what the players have given to them.”

“I know what Sheffield United fans are all about,” Wilder, who could welcome back John Fleck and Lys Mousset for West Ham’s visit, added. “I think if any manager here is in touch with the supporters, it’s myself.”

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