Basham 'not surprised' about Wilder's return

Former Sheffield United defender Chris Basham isn't surprised Chris Wilder has been re-appointed as manager for a third time having previously led the club to promotion from both League One and the Championship.

Sheffield United sacked manager Ruben Selles on Sunday following a 5-0 defeat at Ipswich Town which capped a run of six losses and left the club bottom of the Championship and out of the League Cup.

Wilder was hired just a day after Selles' departure.

"I'm surprised how quick it's happened but I'm not surprised on Chris Wilder coming back in as manager," Basham told BBC Radio Sheffield.

"I think he understands the club more than anybody. They've had to act and they've acted in the right way."

Wilder has returned to the Blades for his third spell as manager having previously taken them to the Premier League and recording a ninth-place finish in the top tier during his first spell. Last season, he led the club to the Championship play-off final before the culmination of his second spell.

Despite a poor run of form to begin the season, Sheffield United sit nine points from the play-off spots, providing Wilder with the opportunity to turn their season around.

"[Promotion] will be [Wilder's] target. I don't think it would be anything but that. He'll definitely be pushing for play-offs," Basham said.

Basham played at Sheffield United during Wilder's first and second spells and believes his managerial style could make the difference for a promotion push.

"He's hands-on, he tells us how it is. I think he's truthful and I think that's what a lot of the lads need at the moment."

Wilder's first match in charge is against Charlton Athletic at Bramall Lane on Saturday (15:00 BST).

Listen to the full interview with Chris Basham and more Sheffield United on Sounds