Sheffield United is preparing for a key summer transfer window as they want to compete for the play-offs next season.

Chris Wilder returned to Bramall Lane for the third time last season, and while he did enough to keep the team out of relegation jeopardy, an uneven final few months of the season was a major disappointment.

So, the Blades are set for a major overhaul over the coming weeks, with Wilder having made it clear that he wants to shake things up.

Alan Knill leaves Sheffield United after over a decade alongside Chris Wilder

However, one unexpected change has occurred in the backroom crew, as the Sheffield Star reports that Alan Knill has departed the club.

The 61-year-old has been associated with Wilder since 2008, when the Blades boss actually assisted Knill at Gigg Lane.

After that, the roles were reversed, with Knill acting as Wilder’s number two at Northampton, Sheffield United, Middlesbrough and Watford, and he rejoined Wilder at Bramall Lane in September.

Interestingly, the update adds that Wilder did not make the choice, with the US owners instead making the call to split ways with Knill, who was said to be’shocked’ when he learned he was no longer needed.

They claim that there is a desire to offer younger coaches Micky Collins and Guilherme Ramos more important responsibilities, which will now occur in the current structure, as the duo appears to be well regarded at the club.

Sheffield United risk alienating Chris Wilder with Alan Knill decision

The obvious issue with this move is the influence it may have on Wilder, who, as previously stated, has had Knill as his right-hand man for more than a decade.

He would always praise the former Rotherham manager’s abilities, and it is evident that he values what Knill offers to clubs, both on the training pitch and as someone with whom he can bounce ideas.

Naturally, it begs the question of what Wilder really feels about this, and it seems needlessly risky from the owners to force a change on the manager in such a key area.

The idea that they are looking to make changes is commendable, but the club’s goal should be to help Wilder as much as possible, and it’s difficult to see how dismissing Knill accomplishes that.

Of course, Wilder will remain professional, and he may benefit from hearing a new voice and consulting with people who have diverse perspectives. The likes of Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola regularly changed their backroom team, so it could work out well for the Blades.

Ultimately, this decision will be assessed later, but it’s a sad day for everyone associated with Sheffield United, as Knill’s commitment to the club’s success over the years is greatly cherished by those in the stands.

The club was in a bad situation in League One when Wilder and Knill took control, and the journey to a top half finish in the Premier League was a triumph for the Blades, with the assistant manager playing an important role in that ascension.