Why Sheffield United want Ruben Selles as Chris Wilder replacement - there are 3 clear reasons | OneFootball

Sheffield United are set to appoint Ruben Selles as Chris Wilder's replacement in the dugout at Bramall Lane.

Sheffield United are expected to appoint Ruben Selles as Chris Wilder’s successor going into the new Championship season.

The Blades suffered play-off heartbreak against Sunderland at Wembley back in May, which meant they missed out on promotion despite picking up 90 points in the campaign, which includes a two-point deduction.

So, Wilder did a fantastic job, but it hasn’t been enough, as it has been widely reported that the boyhood fan is set to be sacked and replaced by Selles.

Clearly, it’s a risky move by the Sheffield United hierarchy, and there will be pressure on Selles to hit the ground running as he looks to win over the fans.

But, here we outline THREE reasons why the ownership group will be convinced this is the right choice…

He is willing to work under their structure

We’ll start with the obvious. It is well-documented that the transfer strategy at Bramall Lane has changed, with the board favouring an AI data-led approach when it comes to bringing in new recruits.

That may not have been to Wilder’s liking, but it’s the way the club is going, so it’s imperative that the club bring in a manager who is willing to work in that structure.

Selles is clearly happy to do that, and it’s worth noting that he has worked, and flourished, under arguably the most difficult environment in the EFL over the past few years during his time at Reading.

That proves he is a coach who is happy to work with the players on the training ground, and he will be focused on improving the group and ensuring they understand his methods.

He has Championship experience

As well as his outstanding work at Reading, Selles has managed Hull City in the second tier, so he is not jumping into the unknown.

Many felt the Tigers were very harsh in dismissing Selles, as he joined mid-season when they were battling relegation, and his remit was to keep the club in the division.

Whilst it went to the final day, the Spaniard achieved his goal, but it wasn’t enough, as Acun Ilicali decided to replace him.

Nevertheless, it means Sheffield United have a boss who has tasted Championship football, and he will feel it’s a level he deserves a proper crack at.

He has a point to prove

Following on from that, Selles will feel he has a point to prove, and that’s always an advantage when you have a manager who is desperate to succeed.

This isn’t another name on the managerial merry-go-round that we often see. At 42, the ex-Southampton coach is still young, and he wants to show why many rate him highly.

He worked under major restrictions at Reading, and then was sacked after a matter of months at Hull. So, Selles will now want to settle down, to lead a project, and to show that he can make his own mark on a club over the long-term.