Chris Wilder has admitted that the altercation with Andrew Surman simply came down to frustration on his part.
The Blades ran out 2-1 winners against Eddie Howe’s Bournemouth yesterday. It was a result that propelled them to within just two points of the Champions League places.
However, the game at Bramall Lane was not without its drama. Not least because of the panic surrounding the weather prior to the game but also due to the fact Wilder and Cherries midfielder, Andrew Surman, seemingly cooked up their own storm on the field.
Wilder and Surman came to blows on the touchline and were both shown a yellow card by John Moss. And speaking after the game, the Blades boss admitted he let frustration get the better of him this time.
“Erm…I got a little bit frustrated. Little bits and pieces that happened this afternoon“, Wilder said. (BBC Sport)
“It’s happened in other games this season and I’m not used to it. Perhaps it’s something I need to get used too. But, there was no problem between the benches. We’re both passionate but it was just a little altercation”.
Wilder’s passion seemed to lift the crowd, however. United dominated proceedings from then on and deservedly got the winning goal through John Lundstram in the 84th minute.
What is Wilder hinting at with his comments
The Blades boss has already spoken this season of being upset at some of the antics he sees from other teams. The ability to win free-kicks, play for time, and simply stifle games, are all things Wilder has picked up on.
Bournemouth were trying those things today, too. On countless occasions, the Cherries players went down over very little. Those little niggles and tactics seemed to wind Wilder up and he, admittedly, let his emotions get the better of him.
However, it’s still all a learning process for Wilder and his team. They got the three points in the end and that is all that matters on this occasion.