Transfer rows last straw for Wilder

CHRIS WILDER’S departure from Sheffield United was finally announced last night – after a series of bust-ups with owner Prince Abdullah.

Wilder spoke of his “special journey” following almost five years in charge of his beloved Blades.

But the worst kept secret was confirmed with Wilder exiting the Premier League’s bottom club by

“mutual consent”. Wilder said: “Being manager of Sheffield United has been a special journey and one I’ll never forget.”

Under-23 manager Paul Heckingbottom has been named caretaker manager for the rest of the season, starting with today’s clash at Leicester. He will be assisted by Jason Tindall, who was axed by

Bournemouth last month.

Wilder (right) leaves following a long-running battle with the board over the club’s plans for next season.

Rows over recruitment strategy and the training ground saw tensions finally explode.

Disagreed

Wilder wanted to retain the bulk of his squad for next season to boost their chances of bouncing straight back up.

The board disagreed and feel they need to cash in on assets to reduce costs. The final straw for Wilder came in January when the board blocked his transfer requests – with tensions between Wilder and the club owner having heightened recently.

Boyhood Blades fan Wilder took his hometown club from League One to the Premier League in just four years.

He led them to ninth place last season but the Yorkshire club are doomed this term.