Wilder makes Sharp new Blades skipper

The new Blades boss - a United fan like Sharp - believes the former Scunthorpe United striker can be his side’s talisman.

Wilder was introduced to the media at Bramall Lane today, alongside No 2 Alan Knill, and immediately announced 30-year-old Sharp would be the new club captain when the players return for pre-season.

“I know Billy Sharp very well, and if there is a player to lead this club forward in our era it would be someone of the character of Billy, the ability of Billy,” said Wilder.

“Someone who understands, like myself, the club and what it takes to get promotion.

“He’s done the business at the top end of the pitch this season, and I think it was quite interesting to listen to Billy at the end of the season at player of the year awards, when he scooped all the awards up.

“The way he talked about the season that’s gone, and I am sure he wants to lead this club to promotion.

“Billy has a very important part to play in the changing room. He doesn’t have to tell me everything, but he has to lead from the front.

“We have picked the perfect candidate to do that.”

Former Doncaster Rovers and Leeds United striker Sharp finished last season as United’s top scorer, netting 21 goals.