The player Sheffield United simply must get back to firing on all cylinders

Although Mousset is unlikely to spearhead the attack when Manchester United visit Bramall Lane on Thursday as he is nursed back to fitness following foot surgery, the French centre-forward has suddenly become even more important to the United cause after it emerged Oli McBurnie, his fellow striker, could miss the contest with a shoulder issue.

Speaking earlier this month, after confirming Mousset had resumed training after three months on the sidelines, Wilder described the 24-year-old as a “game changer” because of his pace and finishing ability. As they prepare to enter their meeting with the 20-time English champions at the bottom of the table, still without a win this season and having just drawn their seventh blank of their campaign during a 3-0 defeat at Southampton, United desperately need one of those right now.

“We just keep assessing it really,” Wilder replied when asked if Mousset, who appeared as a second-half substitute during Sunday’s defeat by Southampton, will shortly be in a position to complete more than a brief cameo. “Lys, with his assists and goals, I want him to be ready to start.

“To do that straight away, after not really having a pre-season, well it was always going to be difficult.

“We would have loved to have him available more but he’s getting minutes now and it’s a build up process.”

Mousset spent 20 minutes on the pitch at St Mary’s, replacing Chris Basham during the closing stages. McBurnie had earlier been forced off after falling awkwardly, and was assessed by medical staff at the Steelphalt Academy following United’s return to South Yorkshire.

Previously of AFC Bournemouth, Mousset demonstrated why Bob Bradley, his former manager at le Havre, labelled him an “explosive” talent capable of scoring “phenomenal” goals, at the beginning of last term - netting five times in only 10 outings. Although a series of fitness and personal issues hampered his progress, the severity of the toe problem Mousset sustained during a pre-season friendly against Preston North End has proven more costly than anyone associated with United dreamt at the time.

“We need our best players back and firing,” Wilder said. “Lys is among them.”

If McBurnie does miss out the meeting with Manchester United and Mousset is not in a position to lead the line, Rhian Brewster could return to the starting eleven after being eased into top-flight football following his move from Liverpool. Despite a prolific spell on loan at Swansea City last season, three of the youngster’s four appearances for Jurgen Klopp’s side came in cup competitions. David McGoldrick, Oli Burke and Billy Sharp are also competing for roles against Manchester United, who drew 0-0 with Manchester City at the weekend.

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