KILLJOYS DRIVE ME WILD

CHRIS WILDER reckons it will be a dark day for football when it stops being a funny old game. The Sheffield United manager was saddened by the backlash aimed at Burnley boss Sean Dyche last week for a light-hearted five-minute interlude at the end of a press conference.

He came in for flak for being over-flippant in the run-up to Manchester City’s visit after discussing his habit of trying to spot famous lookalikes. Now Wilder, who had journalists in stitches last season when he revealed how he turned down a ticket for Ben Stokes’ once-in-a-lifetime Headingley Ashes heroics, is worried the repercussions will force other managers to reveal even less of their true character.

Wilder said: “Sean’s not just an incredible football manager who has done a brilliant job, he’s a very funny, smart and sharp guy.

“I really like his company and I like listening to what he has to say. You’re damned if you do and you’re damned if you don’t when it comes to showing a bit of your character in interviews.

“There’s a danger more managers will put up the shutters because of this type of reaction.”

Wilder has maintained his sense of humour and affable, open relationship with reporters despite the criticism received for his side’s record 18-game wait for a Premier League win this season.

A post-Christmas revival has given them an outside chance of pulling off a great escape as they aim to record a sixth win in eight games in all competitions at home to Chelsea tonight.

Wilder (left) added: “My press conferences aren’t just straightforward affairs. They’re quite varied at times.

“No one will change me and Sean but other managers will do what’s best for them.”