Sheffield United: Chris Wilder touched by welcome at Bramall Lane

Chris Wilder has admitted to being touched by the welcome he received after being named as Sheffield United manager.
Chris Wilder is flanked by his assistant Alan Knill and co-owner Kevin McCabe 
©2016 Sport Image all rights reservedChris Wilder is flanked by his assistant Alan Knill and co-owner Kevin McCabe 
©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved
Chris Wilder is flanked by his assistant Alan Knill and co-owner Kevin McCabe ©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved

But the 48-year-old, who took charge when Nigel Adkins was sacked earlier this month, has vowed sentiment will not cloud his judgement ahead of the 2016/17 League One campaign.

Former players Tony Currie, Len Badger, Tony Agana and Brian Deane were among those to praise Wilder’s appointment when it was officially announced a fortnight ago while co-owner Kevin McCabe told The Star recently that Dave Bassett, his old mentor at Bramall Lane, also believes United have got “the right man for the job.”

Brian Deane and Tony Agana back Chris Wilder's appointment 
©2015 Sport Image all rights reservedBrian Deane and Tony Agana back Chris Wilder's appointment 
©2015 Sport Image all rights reserved
Brian Deane and Tony Agana back Chris Wilder's appointment ©2015 Sport Image all rights reserved

“I know there is a lot of goodwill about me succeeding here, which I really appreciate,” Wilder said. “The phone has been ridiculously busy. I have had messages from Keith (Edwards), (Kevin) Gage, Derek French, Tony Agana, Brads (Carl Bradshaw) and others. They and the supporters here are desperate for this club to win a load of games of football and do well.

“There’s a lot of hard work to turn it around, but I like to think there’s a good buzz around the place.”

Wilder, a lifelong United supporter, made 126 appearances for United during two spells as a player and returns to South Yorkshire after lifting the League Two title with Northampton Town last term.

He demonstrated a ruthless streak by releasing 10 members of United’s squad and transfer listing another seven after replacing Adkins at the helm.

“Kevin hasn’t done it because I used to be a ball boy and player here, it’s because of what I have done as a manager,” Wilder said.