Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder has confirmed that influential midfielder Vini Souza is in contention to feature in Friday night’s crucial Championship fixture against Coventry City at Bramall Lane.
The Brazilian has missed the Blades’ last two outings with a hamstring issue, including the derby victory over Sheffield Wednesday. But ahead of the top-of-the-table battle with Coventry, Wilder revealed that Souza is back training with the squad.
His return arrives at a significant moment, with United having the chance to put pressure on promotion rivals Leeds United and Burnley, both of whom play on Saturday. A win over the Sky Blues would temporarily send Wilder’s side three points clear at the Championship summit.
EFL Championship
Wilder also delivered updates on several other players working their way back from injury. Jamie Shackleton and Alfie Gilchrist have returned to full training over the international break, with the latter recovering from an ankle problem that had kept him sidelined.
Positive signs on Clarke and Davies
While Harry Clarke and Tom Davies are not yet back in full sessions, Wilder suggested their absence won’t be prolonged, with both expected to rejoin training within the next ten days. The manager was upbeat about their availability in the near future.
“The only two who are with not us at the moment are Harry Clarke and Tom Davies. But they are making good progression and hopefully, we can get them back in the next week to 10 days. They will take part (in the rest of the season) 100 per cent.”
The Blades also saw several players in international action. Hamza Choudhury earned a warm reception on his debut appearance in the Asia Cup, while Kieffer Moore featured off the bench for Wales, playing a part in their dramatic equaliser in North Macedonia. Youngster Sydie Peck also found the net for England U20s, drawing praise from Wilder, who joked about the midfielder’s enthusiastic self-assessment of his performance.
Ryan One, another United youngster, added to the feel-good factor with a goal for Scotland U21s, continuing what Wilder described as a “positive international break” across the board.
With injuries beginning to ease and competition for places ramping up, Wilder will hope the refreshed squad can maintain their momentum heading into the final stretch of the season. Friday’s clash with Coventry marks the first of several crucial tests in the Blades’ pursuit of automatic promotion.
Writer’s view
This is the moment where Wilder’s experience could truly prove vital. The return of Souza gives Sheffield United greater control in midfield, particularly in matches where tempo and transition matter. Just as importantly, the growing fitness of key squad members adds depth at a stage of the season when fresh legs can decide tight contests. Coventry at home is no gimme, but with a full-strength side nearly within reach, United may just have the tools to power over the line.
