Why working with Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder is perfect for Ethan Ampadu

The Wales international has joined the Blades on a season-long loan from Chelsea, with input from Wilder confirming that his interests were best served by a move to Yorkshire.

Ampadu, hoping to be involved in Monday's Premier League opener with Wolves, believes that the Blades' high-intensity style of play will also suit his game and he also feels that his versatility can also tick several boxes for Wilder.

Ampadu, who celebrates his twentieth birthday on Monday, said: "I am looking forward to it and really excited. In the last couple of weeks, I got in touch with my agent speaking about this year. When this loan came about, my first impressions were very positive.

"They did so well last year. Everyone had positive things to say about the place. The way the gaffer made the club sound and the expectations and way he can develop me as a player was a positive thing and it is the right move.

"Before I met him, I had good opinions about the place. They were finalised when he spoke to me.

"They play with high intensity and energy and I am a player who can do that. They play with freedom and I feel I am quite composed on the ball and it fits and suits me here.

"He is a manager who has expectations to win and I like to win. Everything suits me and is perfect.

"I back myself to be versatile and be able to play in a couple of positions. I have spoken to the manager about positions."

Along valued input from Wilder at an important stage in his career as he seeks to establish himself as a top-flight player, Ampadu can also count on wise words of advice from his father - former Swansea, West Brom and Exeter midfield Kwame - in his journey ahead.

On the influence of his dad in keeping him grounded and focused, Ampadu added: "I have people around me and my dad is definitely a big influence and keeps me on my toes.

"I know i have not done a lot and want to do so much more. I cannot be happy and excited, still a long way to go.

"He's always told me it's not where you are 17, 18, 19, but at 25 and 26 - at the top of your game in your whole career. It's about patience.

"He is probably the reason I got into it as I was around it (professional football). It is every kid's dream. He tries not to be involved too much as he wants me to be independent, but he has chats with me and that's nice."