Sheffield United appoint Chris Wilder as manager

Sheffield United have appointed Chris Wilder as manager after activating a release clause in his contract at Northampton.

Wilder led Northampton to the League Two title with 99 points this season and has been the subject of interest from a number of clubs in recent weeks.

At the beggining of the week it appeared as though the 48-year-old was set for a move to Charlton but with the deal seemingly on the verge of being completed talks broke down yesterday.

Wilder, who is a self confessed Blades fan, told the club’s official website “A lot of supporters already know me and those who don’t will soon realise that I am loyal, hard-working, straight-talking, thorough and whole-hearted in everything that I do.

“Obviously, people know my connection with the club as a supporter and former player and I want Bramall Lane to return to be an intimidating place – I don’t want the players to feel it is a burden, playing in front of 20,000 fans.

“I understand the club, not just the playing side, but from the board to the Academy, including the key personnel such as Travis Binnion, John Dungworth and Mick Wadsworth, who have all enjoyed success this season.

“Alan Knill will be joining the club too, we have worked together for a long-time and he has been instrumental in the success at Northampton Town.”

Northampton now find themselves in the unusual position of searching for a new manager just a week after winning a league title.

The Cobblers chairman Kelvin Thomas said, “We thank Chris, Alan, and Matt for all their hard work. I think it is safe to say that they have been the most successful management team at this club for a long time and we wish them all the best for the future, or at least for 44 of the 46 games next season!

“As I said on Monday I wanted a quick resolution to this situation with Chris, so I am pleased this has taken less than a week.

“In preparation we have already begun informal discussions and I have met four potential managers as part of the initial search. We also have a list of targets to speak with and will see what applications come through in the next few days.

“It is important that the process is thorough and professional, and we will all be working hard to find the right type of manager to lead this Football Club into League One.”