Chris Wilder Discusses Oliver Arblaster Injury, Tom Davies Return And Coventry City’s Threat | OneFootball

As the Championship season moves into a critical phase, Sheffield United will restart their campaign with a visit to the CBS Arena to face Coventry City on Saturday afternoon.

Coventry City enter the fixture buoyed by their dramatic 2-2 comeback against Sunderland. Down 2-0 at halftime, caretaker manager Rhys Carr inspired a remarkable turnaround, securing a valuable point at the Stadium of Light.

Adding to the intrigue, former players Callum O’Hare and Gustavo Hamer are back at the CBS Arena this weekend. While Chris Wilder anticipates a mixed reception for O’Hare, he praised the duo’s contribution to Coventry’s rise under previous manager Mark Robins.

For Sheffield United, the international break offered a chance for Rhian Brewster and Kieffer Moore to recover from injuries, and reset, after a gritty 1-0 victory over Sheffield Wednesday in the Steel City derby. While the game lacked flair, the Blades emerged victorious and will look to build on that momentum.

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 01: Oliver Arblaster of Sheffield United is awarded a penalty after Yasser Larouci of Watford miss times his tackle during the Sky Bet Championship match between Sheffield United FC and Watford FC at Bramall Lane on September 01, 2024 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)

Sheffield United Boss Discusses Oliver Arblaster Injury, Tom Davies Return And Coventry City’s Threat

One of the significant setbacks for Sheffield United is the potential season-ending injury to young midfielder Oliver Arblaster. The promising player underwent knee surgery during the break, leaving his availability for the remainder of the campaign in serious doubt. Wilder acknowledged the situation, expressing hope for a recovery before the season’s end but emphasising the importance of prioritising the player’s long-term fitness.

Speaking in his press conference, Wilder stated: “We’ll just take it month by month. He certainly won’t play until after Christmas. If we get him back before the end of the season that’s great and if not he’ll be ready for next year.”

One positive development for Chris Wilder’s side is the return of Tom Davies. The experienced midfielder is likely to be eased back into action this weekend, potentially making an impact off the bench. Wilder spoke highly of Davies, describing him as a “top player”.

“The irony of it is we lose a good player [Oliver Arblaster] and we get a good player back. These are things part and parcel that we deal with”, Wilder said. “He’s got a burning ambition to be successful personally and he’s definitely a team player. I’ve seen that. I saw it at Everton. I know a few people at Everton and know what his character is like, what his personality is like, and I know what he’s like from when I’ve been around him last year and how he’s been this year.”

Davies and Sydie Peck will likely be the two battling it out to play alongside Vinicius Souza in the double pivot now that Arblaster is out. Of course, there is also the option to move Gustavo Hamer back into his more natural position.

Wilder expects a tough battle against a talented Coventry squad that has yet to hit its stride this season. He stressed the importance of his team being at their best, especially against a group motivated by managerial changes. “If it’s the best Coventry City, they’ve got some really talented players, and it’s going to be a tough afternoon if we’re not on it,” Wilder claimed.