Sheffield United fans are coming to terms with life without Chris Wilder after reports he’s leaving as manager.
It’s been widely reported today that Wilder will depart as Blades boss after almost five years in charge.
A press conference scheduled for 5pm which was expected to announce the decision has since been cancelled.
Yet that’s only thought to be delaying the inevitable, with Wilder and the club simply ironing out details of his severance package.
It will bring a sorry end to one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.
While this season has been largely disappointing, Wilder’s first four years as manager were an unprecedented success.
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The 53-year-old took United from bottom of League One to ninth in the Premier League during that time.
Yet as they face returning to the Championship next term after a sorry second campaign in the top flight, it won’t be Wilder trying to bring them back at the first time of asking.
What supporters think about Chris Wilder leaving
A boyhood fan and a former Blades player, it’s no surprise Wilder is a popular figure among the fanbase. Not when that is coupled with the success he has brought to Bramall Lane.
Which is why the reaction to the news of his expected departure has been almost wholly one of sadness.
Many seem shocked by the club’s decision to part ways with Wilder after all he has achieved.
Yet for those who don’t follow the Blades closely, there is a little more to the story.
It isn’t solely to do with the poor results this term. Both the owner and chairman have publicly backed Wilder this season.
They were prepared to give him the opportunity to try and get United promoted back to the Premier League.
What seems to have actually cost Wilder his job is a breakdown in the relationship with the board.
Unfortunately for him, when that happens only one person generally leaves – the manager.
It’s a sorry end to what has been a hugely successful time under Wilder. But whatever happens, he has secured legendary status with the supporters.