Sheffield United Boss on Staying Patient Against Preston and Waiting For “Big Moment”, Wilder Reveals Injury News to Key Men | OneFootball

Sheffield United did enough to see out a narrow 1-0 win against Paul Heckingbottom’s Preston North End, with Tyrese Campbell’s second-half goal proving decisive at Bramall Lane.

The deadlock was almost broken within the first 90 seconds. Harrison Burrows whipped in a low cross to the far post, where Tyrese Campbell found himself in a promising position. However, he failed to convert, steering his effort off target from a tight angle.

The visitors responded well in the second half and came close to taking the lead when Sam Greenwood unleashed a fierce strike that rattled the woodwork. It was a let-off for United, but they made Preston pay just moments later when Burrows delivered another dangerous ball into the box. This time, Campbell made no mistake, showing his instinctive movement and finishing ability to put the hosts in front.

Preston threw everything forward in search of an equaliser in the last 30 minutes, launching long balls and crosses into the box and applying pressure. But United’s defence stood firm, ensuring their slender lead remained intact.

Chris Wilder Reflects on “Patient” Sheffield United Win Over Preston

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – MARCH 08: Tyrese Campbell of Sheffield United scores his team’s first goal during the Sky Bet Championship match between Sheffield United FC and Preston North End FC at Bramall Lane on March 08, 2025 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images)

Speaking after the game, Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder praised his side’s performance and resilience: “I thought we were really good from start to finish. Preston are a stubborn and physical side, but we matched them in every department. We got off to a strong start and were well-connected from midfield to attack. We just needed to stay patient, and eventually, we found that big moment through a fabulous ball by Harrison and a great finish by [Campbell].”

Wilder also highlighted the impact of Hamza Choudhury after he moved into his preferred midfield role: “I thought Hamza was fabulous in the second half. He showed exactly why we brought him to the club: winning first and second balls, covering ground, and keeping us going. Sydie [Peck] was outstanding, Callum O’Hare’s work rate was excellent, and Gus [Hamer] was on fire in the first half.”

With crucial games on the horizon, Wilder acknowledged the need to manage his squad carefully, particularly when asked about Hamer and Vinicius Souza’s availability with both going off injured. He said: “No injury concerns at the moment, but we have some big matches coming up. We need to be smart in managing the squad, and if we have to rotate, we have confidence in the players who can step in.”

Former Blades boss Paul Heckingbottom felt his side were hard done by at Bramall Lane. He told Sky Sports, “I think there were a lot of elements to the game. In the first half an hour we were off it and they caused us lots of problems; probably more than most this season.

“They forced us to defend but once we got to grips with it, we had a lot more control.

“We should have had a penalty in the first half. Coming here you have got to play well, take your chances and have the big decisions go your way and a big one has gone against us.”

The Blades are now level with league leaders Leeds United on 76 points, and Burnley are just two points behind them in third with just ten games remaining.