Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has launched a scathing attack on his team's performance and standards, promising them a gruelling week on the training pitch following a disappointing defeat.
Wilder's Fury After Hawthorns Collapse
The Blades boss was left seething after watching his side capitulate in the second half against West Bromwich Albion on Friday night. The Baggies secured a 2-0 victory at The Hawthorns, a result that left Wilder apologising to the travelling supporters and questioning his players' application.
"I'm really annoyed and angry," stated a visibly furious Wilder. He directly apologised to the fans, stating, "that's my team out there but it won't be my team if they carry on doing that." The manager felt his squad failed to capitalise on a vulnerable opponent and lacked the fundamental ruthlessness required to win.
'I Hated Every Bit of It' - A Stark Warning Issued
Wilder did not mince his words when dissecting the performance, particularly after the interval. "Second half, I hated every bit of it," he admitted. He criticised the attitude, suggesting players thought "the game would come to them" without doing the essential work.
The United manager contrasted the display with their previous positive result against Stoke City, insisting the team must now "own" this failure and accept all criticism. "That second half performance was miles off it. And I mean miles off it," he emphasised.
Changes Loom for Birmingham City Clash
With a home game against Birmingham City at Bramall Lane looming this Saturday, Wilder has issued a clear warning that changes could be made. He pointedly remarked that any player not currently in the side should be "rubbing their hands together" at the prospect of getting an opportunity.
"Maybe they are mixing me up with somebody who just wants to accept mediocrity or really low standards and I'm not going to," Wilder declared, underlining his intolerance for subpar efforts. His final message promised a demanding preparation: "It's going to be a long week for everybody."
The big question now is how Sheffield United will respond to this very public dressing-down when they face Birmingham City this weekend.
