'Wilder was heart and soul of Blades'

- Published

Sheffield United's decision to part company with boss Chris Wilder has caused quite the stir.
His departure puts an end to a second spell as Blades manager for Wilder, a boyhood Sheffield United fan, who has firmly put his name among the greats at Bramall Lane with two promotions and a run to last season's play-off final.
Here's what you had to say about his dismissal:
Hazim: Wilder brought us to some dizzying heights but we also, at times, showed a lack of creativity. He did the best with what he could and will always be remembered as one of the greats. Some say build a statue, and I wouldn't be against that. Maybe it's best he leaves now with his head held high. I'm only young so I may be foolishly hopeful, but Selles could find his feet with us if we back him.
Rick: Chris Wilder brought passion back to the club and to get 92 points this season after a horrible relegation was incredible. However, I'm inclined to think some poor January signings and the three straight losses taking us out of the top two did for him. On top of that, the poor disciplinary record was probably not an image the new owners want for their club. It's a tough one and I hope it's the right one.
Billy Ray: Best news ever. Wilder should not have been allowed to have a second spell as manager after leaving United before, when the Blades were relegated. A fresh new face was what was needed at the Lane. New owners and now a fresh manager is what is needed.
Tom: I don't know what to think. Wilder will forever be in our hearts for what he's done for the club. But towards the end of the season it was a big fall off from being top of the league to not being promoted. Adding to the fact the new owners are really pushing AI for recruiting players, I think they want a manager who is adaptable to that. My heart says it's a bad decision, my head is saying it's correct.
Andy: As a Blades fan, it is a disappointing decision to part ways with Chris Wilder. Was every decision he made perfect? No. But no manager gets it right all the time. What was important to me was his connection and understanding to the club and the fanbase. There are so few connections like this in football now and I do believe it is something that helped us. Severing that means you are not just getting a new manager - all those connections need rebuilding too.
Chas: Gutted. The best manager the Blades have ever had. Chris Wilder was the beating heart and soul of Sheffield United. His and the players' achievements last season were truly impressive considering the pre-season issues, injuries and then the tragic loss of George Baldock.
Simon: Massive error. He wins football matches, especially at Championship level, and made the connection between the club and the fans stronger and that's a big loss now he has gone. Feels like the new owners don't understand football, the fans, our identity and the city.
James: Huge mistake. Proven Championship quality replaced with proven Championship relegation fodder. With decisions like this, it is likely to be the end of the good times brought back when Wilder took over in 2015. No faith in the new owners after this.