Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has said he’s relying on the good faith he’s built up with Blades fans to allow him leeway following the signing of less than fan favourite, Gary Madine.
There’s slightly more to Madine’s past than simply playing for our local rivals and having a reported spat with skipper Billy Sharp, but Wilder has recently been very up front about his own knowledge that the decision to sign the 28-year-old would polarise views within the Bramall Lane faithful.
Speaking to the Sheffield Star this week as our preparations continue ahead of Saturday’s Championship clash with Queens Park Rangers, the gaffer said of the capture.
“Gary fits what we need at this time and looking at the market, he also fits what we can do with what we’ve got to work with. Let’s not beat about the bush, I know the signing might split or divide opinion because of the past, and I understand that.”
Adding.
“The game is one of opinions and in this age of social media and whatever, it has created much debate. But I’d like to think I’ve gained the support and trust of the supporters with my background, and my knowledge of the club and the supporters and the league, what’s available and what we need to go forward.”
Wilder went on to say that it was his decision and he will shoulder it, but he wanted fans to look at the ‘bigger picture’ even if they struggled to back our new on loan signing directly.
I think most will certainly give Wilder the leeway he’s after here, and as many have already said, as long as he’s doing a job for us on the pitch histories can be forgotten.