BOSS ISSUES HOME TRUTH: But it's still a positive

Takeaways:

• Chris Wilder has returned to Sheffield United for a third time, exercising restraint in his management approach.
• The team consists of players who lack confidence, necessitating careful handling and candid communication.
• Wilder emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive narrative to support both players and fans alike.
• Despite recent losses, there is a cautious optimism that the team may be improving and finding their form.

Summary:

• Chris Wilder third return to Sheffield United has been marked by uncharacteristic restraint in his management approach.
• Players who lack confidence, need careful handling as well as being told a few home truths on the training ground.
• Wilder knows the importance of maintaining a positive public narrative to support both players and fans alike.
• But the mask slipped a little at the manner of defeat at Preston, which denied the Blades three straight wins inside seven days, suggesting the manager is more confident that his players have progressed enough to shoulder a public ticking off..