Blades' attitude is key to success, says Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder

The Blades lead League One by six points over second-placed Bolton Wanderers with just eight games remaining.

But just two defeats in 18 means United manager Wilder has remained loyal to the players in possession of a shirt.

The likes of Stefan Scougall, Marc McNulty and James Wilson were not even in the match-day 18 for last Saturday’s 2-1 win over Charlton Athletic.

Jake Wright, Harry Chapman and Matt Done were unused substitutes, but Wilder has been impressed with the attitude of his entire squad.

“They are all fit and wanting to get into the team” said Wilder. “Great attitude to the game, and in training.

“Without being arrogant, players have got two choices: they are either in or they are out. These players are in.

“It’s disappointing for players not in the side, I totally understand that, we have all been through it as professional footballers.

“But they all have everything to gain, and nothing to lose, by having a good attitude.”

Whatever the future for some of United’s fringe players, Wilder believes a good attitude is key.

“Regardless of this period, if you have a good attitude as a player you give yourself half a chance to have a career,” he said.

“If you haven’t, then there will always be a question mark over it.

“Whether those players are here next year, or go, the phone always goes asking what they are like.

“I would ring myself up - or Alan Knill (Wilder’s No 2) - because I know you are going to get an honest answer.”

United travel to John Sheridan’s Oldham Athletic on Saturday, missing full-back Daniel Lafferty, who is away on international duty with Northern Ireland.

But several players, in need of game-time, played in a behind-closed-doors friendly this week.

Wilder said: “Everyone is fit, obviously we have lost Daniel through being called up by Northern Ireland.

“Chapman, McNulty, Scougall, Wilson all played 90 minutes - which is good - Leon (Clarke) played 60, and all came through that game.

“We have a fully-fit squad and can’t ask for anything more at this stage of the season.”