Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has admitted the club is "getting bashed about" as they sit 18th in the Championship after eight matches. The Blades have won just two league games and were eliminated from the EFL Cup by League Two Fleetwood Town last month.
Wilder, in his third spell in charge, pointed to a summer of significant change as a key factor. First-team regulars Callum O'Hare, Gus Hamer and Andre Brooks were sold, bringing in a significant sum and reducing the wage bill. The squad now relies heavily on loans and free transfers, with Wilder acknowledging many changes have been made.
"I don't enjoy the little period that we're having because there's not a lot of good news going on but these things happen and we're resetting as a football club," Wilder said. "We have to come fighting back."
Recent results and next steps
Recent form has been mixed, with three wins and two losses in their last five outings. They have, however, lost their last two matches, including a defeat at Stoke City where Kalvin Phillips scored their only goal.
Off the pitch, the club faces an EFL investigation following the liquidation of the company used to purchase Sheffield United. Wilder remains focused on the task of improving results on the field. "The best way of doing that is putting in performances and winning games of football, which I am determined, as ever, to do so," he said. He added that while it has been a slow start, he is certain there is more to come from the team as players find form and he seeks solutions.
Sheffield United host Lincoln at Bramall Lane on Saturday.
