Wilder on Archer's return, building on Anfield display and Chelsea
- Published
Manager Chris Wilder has been speaking to the media before Sheffield United host Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday (17:30 BST kick-off).
Here are the main headlines from his news conference:
Striker Cameron Archer will "definitely be involved" against the Blues after being out of action for almost two months because of a calf injury. Gustavo Hamer is also expected to be available after sustaining a minor injury in Thursday's loss at Liverpool.
On Archer's absence and return, Wilder said: "Cameron has been a major signing for Sheffield United and to not have him available for about six weeks has been a big blow. To have him back is great - he can get us up the pitch and score us a goal."
Wilder said the Blades can take heart from the defensive part of their performance at Anfield: "We showed some good signs in terms of our structure and, most importantly, our attitude to defending. We have to produce these types of performances and give ourselves a platform to get a result."
On the approach to the final eight games of the season: "We've tried to get results right the way through. I don't think there's been an attitude change. The opposition's strengths at times overcome anything you've got and sometimes it looks like you're not trying or you don't care, but I certainly don't believe that's the case. There have possibly been moments this season when the team should have done better and maybe have felt sorry for themselves through those periods. But the Premier League is ruthless, relentless and absolutely kills you when you're not on it."
Wilder continued: "We have everything to play for in the last eight games. We've got a responsibility, first and foremost, to our supporters to give our best in every game. What I've seen in the past three games is certainly a reaction to a disappointing night at home to Arsenal. We need to show those qualities going forward."
On Sunday's opponents Chelsea: "They're still in with a European shout and you look at the amazing squad strength and quality they possess - people can talk about them not being at their best and being inconsistent, but they can hurt you. We can take a lot from the past three games, especially our last home performance, and hopefully get something from the game."
