'You're about to face one of the best in the world' Sheffield United are warned ahead of clash with Chelsea

United’s latest opponents embarked upon a major recruitment drive during the recent transfer window, with Germany centre-forward Timo Werner among a flurry of star names arriving in west London.

Although Werner will enter tonight’s Champions League tie against Rennes searching for his sixth goal in only 11 outings for Frank Lampard’s side, he believes compatriot and international team mate Kai Havertz should be heralded as the former England midfielder’s most astute purchase.

“I know Kai very well and I think he is one of the most talented players in the whole world,” Werner said. “He is a young boy, only 21, and he can learn a lot. But he can already play like a very old and wise player.”

United will hope Chelsea’s lack of preparation time for Saturday’s game puts Lampard’s men at a disadvantage, although after facing Burnley only 72 hours after starting their Group H clash with FC Krasnodar in Russia, only injury or illness is likely to dissuade Lampard from selecting Havertz when Wilder’s men visit to capital.

With the on-loan Ethan Ampadu ineligible for selection against his parent club, Wilder is also without John Fleck (back), Jack O’Connell (knee) and Lys Mousset (toe) as he attempts to end United’s seven match winless streak.