High flying Sheffield United host league leaders Leeds United at Bramall Lane on Monday, but Blades coach Chris Wilder made it clear that no matter the result, it “doesn’t decide anything”.
The current table sees Leeds two points above Sheffield United, meaning a win for the Blades on Monday would see them leapfrog their Yorkshire rivals, and lead the Championship with 14 games left to play.
When asked about whether this would have a big impact on the title, Wilder said: “There’s loads of games to go, if you were looking at the second, third or fourth last game of the season I’d understand, but there’s still an awful amount of games still to play.”
Wilder was appreciative of Leeds’ form and their manager, Daniel Farke.
He said: “He’s a good guy and a top manager, he deserves all the plaudits he’s getting at the moment.”
Farke is suspended for the game on Monday, after picking up his third yellow card of the season in Leeds’ wild celebrations after their last minute winner against Sunderland last weekend.
Wilder was not impressed by the decision to ban the Leeds boss as he said: “If that’s the way the game is going, then it’s just ridiculous.
“Managers are emotional and passionate and have character. Dan showed that on Monday night and got punished for it, it’s absolutely ridiculous.
“I think the punishment for three yellow cards is incredibly harsh when you think about the amount of games we have to manage.
First choice goalkeeper, Adam Davies is a doubt for the game, with a tight calf, but Wilder has full faith in his number two, Michael Cooper.
He said: “Our number 2 is really highly regarded internally, He’s a young goalkeeper but he’s got a bright future.
“He’s got the trust of the staff and most importantly he’s got the trust of the players.”
Wilder also reiterated his side’s hunger for success as he said: “They’re prepared to dig deep when they have to, fight for the badge and fight for the shirt.”