WILDER: BROOKS IS BEST OFF WITH BLADES
CHRIS Wilder insists Sheffield United will only sell players if they need to bring in reinforcements, with the Blades boss desperate to keep hold of rising star David Brooks.
The 20-year-old has been linked with a number of Premier League clubs, but only signed a new deal at Bramall Lane last February.
Since then he has forced his way into the first team squad, and impressed in Carabao Cup action against Leicester City during the week.
The former Manchester City academy graduate was also one of the stars of the England team that won the Toulon Tournament this summer, earning the player of the tournament award for his performances – which included a goal in the final against Ivory Coast.
That had led to speculation that Everton could make a move for the midfielder although for now he remains on the books with the Blades.
And while Wilder admits that Brooks’ rapid progression means that he could eventually move on, for now he is adamant the youngster is going nowhere.
He said: “He’s only just signed (a new contract). But you’re always having to look and protect.
“We’re in a fantastic position because he’s our player.
“He’s with us and the best place for him is here, with Sheffield United. That’s how I see it and that’s what will be happening.
“We want to keep those players here, whether it’s Couttsy (Paul Coutts), Flecky (John Fleck), Jack (O’Connell) or Brooksy, who is a young boy. We want to build something with them. We are back in the powerseat after coming up.
“I don’t want to lose somebody unless I want to or feel we might need to sacrifice somebody to bring someone else in.”