Sheffield United's muted celebrations at Derby County explained as Chris Wilder sends heartfelt supporter message
Chris Wilder praised Sheffield United fans after a final-day win at Derby County and revealed why celebrations were kept low-key at Pride Park.
Chris Wilder dedicated Sheffield United’s final-day victory at Derby County to the Blades’ supporters after a tough season - and explained his side’s muted celebrations at the end of a welcome win. The Blades dented Derby’s hopes of gatecrashing the play-offs with a 2-1 win at Pride Park.
In the end it didn’t matter as Hull City beat Norwich City to seal sixth spot on the final day, with former United striker Oli McBurnie netting twice. But it was a positive end to a frustrating season for United, who were in relegation danger when Wilder returned in September.
At times in his third tenure in charge they showed signs of mounting a play-off push of their own but just could not find any real consistency when they needed it, with fitness and mentality identified as two key facets for the Blades to improve on this summer.
This was a game of two halves, with Derby swarming all over United early on as they were roared on by a voiciferous home support. But United stayed in the game and steadily took control in the second half, with goals from Tom Cannon and Sydie Peck securing victory.
A sold-out away following at Pride Park hailed their side at full-time, with rather muted scenes from Wilder and his group of staff and players. The Blades chief later explained that he was keen not to interrupt Derby’s own post-match thanks to their supporters.
“I wanted it to be quick,” he admitted. “I wasn't being disrespectful to our supporters, but I wanted to make sure that the home side got the amount of time that they deserve for their efforts. Not just today, but through the season.
“I’m delighted for the supporters. I’ve mentioned it before, I never take it for granted. Both personally, and what they give to the football club. It was a great atmosphere here today. And the reception that we got in the end, I think, was deserved.
“It was a game of different parts. We understood the start was coming and then we had to try and wrestle that back, which we did. And then I thought we were a really good second half. Created some good chances.
“I'm never one of those managers who talk about: ‘It could be this and it could be that.’ Because they've got everything to go for and gamble. So that was the reason that we created some good chances.
“But I thought, generally, the goals were good. We played well. I said to the players before the game: ‘You have to represent the fans in the right way, and you have to give them something back for what they've given you all season, and given me.’ And I thought we did that.”