Sheffield United's firepower could be set for a boost ahead of their clash with West Ham

After facing Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea in their last three games, United are preparing for Sunday’s game against West Ham at the foot of the table and without a win in eight outings.

Although Wilder insists recent results are not an accurate reflection of the performances his players have produced of late - reminding how Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola noted the challenge they posed both at Anfield and when City visited Bramall Lane last month - he does concede there are numerous areas where United must improve in order to survive at the highest level.

Coaching staff spent the first week of the international break examining how to increase the service to attackers such as Rhian Brewster, Oli McBurnie and David McGoldrick - with the latter responsible for two of the four goals United have scored in the competition so far this term.

“We’ve got to try and give these lads more service,” Wilder said. “That’s something we’re looking at.

“I think it’s fair to say that’s probably to be expected when you look at our last three opponents. But moving forward, that’s something we’ve got to get better at.”

The firepower at United’s disposal could also be boosted shortly when Lys Mousset returns from injury. The Frenchman, who netted five times in 10 appearances at the beginning of last season, has not featured for United since damaging a toe during a pre-season friendly against Preston North End.

However, Mousset and John Fleck - who is recovering from a back problem - resumed light-training ahead of the trip to Stamford Bridge earlier this month. There is a possibility that one - or both - could be available for selection when David Moyes’ side travel to South Yorkshire, although Wilder has warned it would be “a mistake” to pitch them back into action too soon.

“They’re important players for us,” Wilder, who has described the pair as “game changers”, said. “We want them back as quickly as possible but, equally, we don’t want to run the risk of losing them again.”

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