“Things Can Go Bang” – Wilder Teases Sheffield United Transfer Movement As Blades Prepare For Charlton | OneFootball

Sheffield United are back in Championship action as the Blades return to league duty on Saturday afternoon with a trip to The Valley to face Charlton Athletic.

Charlton come into the weekend low on confidence after a heavy 5-1 home defeat to Chelsea in the FA Cup. That result compounded what has been a difficult spell for the Addicks, whose league form has also been far from convincing. Charlton have recorded just one league win since early November, leaving them searching for momentum as they continue their Championship campaign.

Sheffield United are also aiming to bounce back from FA Cup disappointment. The Blades suffered a huge shock last Sunday when Mansfield Town left Bramall Lane with a dramatic 4-3 victory. Despite that setback, Chris Wilder’s side have a strong opportunity to quickly refocus on league matters, with a chance to claim a third consecutive Championship win and move closer to the play-off places.

Charlton could be short down their left-hand side, with both Amari’i Bell and Tyreece Campbell forced off with injuries during the FA Cup loss to Chelsea. Their potential absence would reduce options in wide areas, although the Addicks have strengthened their squad with the additions of Lyndon Dykes and Harry Clarke. Both players bring Championship pedigree, something Charlton have lacked at times and could play key roles as they bed in.

The Blades also welcomed some positive news on the fitness front last weekend. Tom Davies returned to action with a short substitute appearance against Mansfield, while Ben Mee was handed his first start in several weeks as he continues to build match sharpness.

Sydie Peck could also feature in the matchday squad on Saturday afternoon after being given extra recovery time. His return would provide an extra boost in midfield following a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Blades Players Set For Return

Speaking ahead of the trip to south London, Chris Wilder confirmed that Peck is set to be included in the matchday squad for the first time since early December.

“I’m delighted Sydie is back and amongst us,” Wilder said in his pre-match press conference. “It says a lot about the young guy. It was a big blow missing him and Ben [Mee] at that time, but we’ve come through it and current form is really good.

“We’ve had reminders of what happens if you slip off it; you get punished and hurt, and we know what could potentially happen on Saturday if we aren’t at it.”

Wilder also explained that some players needed rest following the Mansfield defeat.

“There were some genuine issues around that Mansfield game where players needed to come out, have a rest and recover to get themselves right and they’ve done that,” he added. “We’ve also got Chieo [Ogbene] back with us so that’s more good news in terms of availability.”

Chris Wilder Assesses Charlton Athletic Test

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 20: Greg Docherty of Charlton Athletic is challenged by Sydie Peck of Sheffield United during the Sky Bet Championship match between Sheffield United and Charlton Athletic at Bramall Lane on September 20, 2025 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by Jess Hornby/Getty Images)

Wilder was also full of praise for Saturday’s opponents, highlighting his admiration for Charlton and the challenge they present.

“I really like Charlton Athletic as a football club,” he said. “I was close to being manager there once and I think it’s got a really good feel to it. It’s a southern Sheffield United in a way; it’s working class, it’s tough, the work ethic of the team is good, the manager is excellent and gets his team up for every game.

“They’ve built and deservedly got through the play-offs. It’s not a League One club, it’s been in the Championship for a number of years. I had a loan spell there so I know the goings on and the DNA of that football club. They’ve had a real strong and steady start to life back in the Championship and they’re a tough opposition.”

Sheffield United Transfer Update

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 20: Chris Wilder, Manager of Sheffield United, applauds the fans following victory in the Sky Bet Championship match between Sheffield United and Birmingham City at Bramall Lane on December 20, 2025 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by Jess Hornby/Getty Images)

Wilder also provided an update on Sheffield United’s transfer activity, acknowledging that progress is being made behind the scenes, even if no immediate deals are expected.

“It’s nudging along,” he explained. “These players will have options and vice versa, our players will have options and players will want to see what’s out there. We understand that.

“If some of the players we’re after are linked to other clubs, that’s understandable, but there’s some others that are left-field and we’ve worked really hard on. It’s moving.

“Obviously we’re not going to get anyone in for tomorrow, but Wednesday is another day, next Saturday is another day as well. Maybe for Southampton, maybe so. All of a sudden things can go bang, there it is. Ki-Jana [Hoever] was one of them.”

Despite just three points separating the two sides, they are both riding a different wave of momentum; Charlton have struggled for three points over the last couple of months while the Blades are hoping to string a long win streak together and push towards the top six.