Sheffield United has had a difficult start to the season, both on and off the field, as the team seeks to improve on last season’s disappointing performance.

Chris Wilder returned to Bramall Lane for the third time to replace the faltering Ruben Selles, and while he performed an outstanding job of leading the Blades to 13th place, the club has shown no indications of improvement this season.

There have even been allegations of a potential points reduction, however owner Steven Rosen has stated that this is just a rumour spread by former owner Prince Abdullah.

Despite the hostility surrounding the club, Wilder has replied decisively ahead of Sheffield United’s return to action following the international break.

Chris Wilder tells up about his bond with Sheffield United players.

Discomfort is developing at Bramall Lane following another disappointing start to the season, with Sheffield United in 18th place after nine points from their first eight Championship games.

The Blades lost 2-1 to Stoke City over the weekend, despite leading through Kalvin Phillips, and Wilder said it was far too early for fans to pass judgement following their boos at the Bet365 Stadium.

Wilder also stated that his team would return to fighting form following the international break, which irritated several fans who are plainly losing patience.

“The players are super tight, and I’m super tight with them,” the 59-year-old told The Star, hoping that the outside noise wouldn’t damage his team.

“So there will be no breaking, yet many people want to break things and throw bombs all over the area.

There will be no breaking of that. That trust between myself and that group of players out there… I’m looking them in the eyes, and they’re giving their everything.”

What’s going wrong at Sheffield United?

While there have been a few nice outcomes, performance has been a worry, and the club will need to improve after the international break.

The Blades have scored the sixth-lowest amount of goals (9) in the Championship, yet also have the fourth-lowest anticipated goals (xG) of any team, trailing only Charlton Athletic, Blackburn Rovers, and Watford, according to Opta Analytics.

Lowest xG in the Championship (per Opta Analyst)

Total

Charlton

5.89

Blackburn: 7.42; Watford: 7.59; Sheffield United: 7.67.

Derby County

8.30

Furthermore, their 25 shots on target are tied for third-lowest in the division, and without their clinical finishing, things would be much worse.

Of course, the team lost most of its creative and attacking spark over the summer, notably Gus Hamer, Callum O’Hare, and Andre Brooks, who combined for 19 Championship assists last season and have yet to be replaced.

Fans have understandably been screaming for more effort, fight, and drive, and if anyone can rally the team, it must be Wilder.

What lies ahead for the Blades?

Sheffield United return to action on October 10 against Lincoln City, starting a favourable run of games that should result in plenty of points.

Following their home game against the Imps, the Blades face Portsmouth, Bristol City, Derby, and Wrexham, three of whom are in the bottom half of the table.

This is a critical set of fixtures and might be a turning point in the club’s season, but if they fail to pick up many points and performances don’t improve, then Wilder will have a lot to answer for.