“It Will Be A Respectable Total” – Blades Target Milestone As Chris Wilder Bangs Drum Ahead of Final Kick-off of the Season
“It Will Be A Respectable Total” – Blades Target Milestone As Chris Wilder Bangs Drum Ahead of Final Kick-off of the Season Sheffield United finally bring the curtain down on their 2025/26 Sky Bet Championship campaign on Saturday afternoon with a short trip across the East Midlands to face Derby County at Pride Park. For the hosts, the stakes could hardly be higher. Derby head into the final day knowing that a place in the play-offs remains within touching distance.
Sitting just one point behind both Wrexham and Hull City, a victory, combined with favourable results elsewhere, could complete a dramatic late surge into the top six. . Their momentum was perfectly captured last weekend, when an 88th-minute winner against Queens Park Rangers kept their promotion hopes alive and set up a compelling final-day showdown.
In contrast, Sheffield United arrive with little but pride left to play for. Another disappointing performance at Bramall Lane, culminating in defeat to Preston North End after conceding three goals, has summed up a frustrating end to the season. Manager Chris Wilder has made little attempt to hide his dissatisfaction in recent weeks, openly criticising performances and making it clear that significant changes are expected in the summer.
Derby’s preparations have been slightly complicated by injury concerns. Former Blade Rhian Brewster remains a doubt as he continues his recovery from a knee issue, while Patrick Agyemang is sidelined with an Achilles problem. Bobby Clark is also being assessed after a hamstring strain, and Sammie Szmodics could face a late fitness test after being forced off in their recent win.
United have their own selection issues to contend with. Kalvin Phillips and Andre Brooks are both expected to miss out again, with Wilder confirming he will not take risks on players ahead of the summer. Brooks, who has been one of the standout performers this season, will sit out after a minor knee injury sustained in training.