Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder expressed boundless ambition during the press conference ahead of the trip to Knighthead Park this weekend.
When asked whether he was satisfied with the team’s league position, he said: “I’m never satisfied. If we were top, I’d want to be top by ten points.”
The Blades have gained seven points from a potential twelve, currently sitting 13th in the Championship. Hosts Birmingham City have had a similar run of form, gaining six points from a potential 15.
A win this weekend would give the team a sense of “renewed optimism”, Wilder added.
“We’re after one big performance that gets us back on track.”
Sheffield United were left disappointed after Norwich City came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory earlier in the week. Despite Jairo Riedewald taking the lead for the Blades in the 20th minute, defensive errors in the midfield lead to Amankwah Forson having an easy shot on goal late in the second half.
This followed a 1-1 draw against West Brom, with the equalizer coming in the 83rd minute. Wilder said: “Not getting the win should have got, and deserved really, against West Brom,” acted as a temporary hit to the teams “optimism, belief, and confidence.”
“We’ve not got it right over the last two games and we need to go and get it right on Saturday.”
The Blades are suffering from the absence of several key players due to suspension or injury. However, Patrick Bamford is due to return, after sustaining a hamstring injury in early February. When asked how this will influence the team, Wilder said:
“The balance of the experienced players being in and around is key.
“Obviously, Pat is extremely talented, but extremely experienced and played at the highest level and missing him is a big blow.”
With both teams in fighting distance of the playoffs, Wilder explained his leadership expectations within the team:
“Some lead from the front, some lead in different ways. They’ve all got to play a part and we expect them to take that responsibility. “
Wilder acknowledged the need to remain focused, by adopting a match-by-match approach, rather than speculating how many points could be earned before the season’s conclusion.
With nine games left to play, a strong performance could see the Blades competing for a spot in the Premier League.