Why Sheffield United also want to shed players before Friday's transfer deadline

Speaking ahead of this weekend’s visit to Crystal Palace, Wilder confirmed United’s football administration department have been instructed to create room for new arrivals by arranging exit deals for those unlikely to feature during the second-half of the Premier League season.

Although some clubs prefer to stockpile players, particularly those aged 21 or under to circumnavigate competition rules, Wilder said: “I think numbers are important.

“I don’t like it when they (squads) get too big because I don’t think that breeds genuine competition and competition is something I like.

“Everyone has got to feel they’ve got a genuine chance of being involved. If they don’t, then in the long-term I don’t think that’s good for their spirit.”

Kean Bryan, Leon Clarke and forgotten man Ricky Holmes are among those United are prepared to either sell or loan out during this month’s window, while others could also depart if Wilder feels it would be beneficial for their development.

David Parkhouse, aged 20, has joined Stevenage on loan until the end of the season after scoring 19 goals in 39 times during a spell with Derry City.

A Northern Ireland youth international, Parkhouse has yet to make a senior appearance for United.

“This is a great club and I’m glad to be a part of it,” he said, after completing his switch to Hertfordshire.