Chris Wilder, manager of Sheffield United
On his way? Blades boss Chris Wilder
Derby County's Championship rivals Sheffield United are to sack manager Chris Wilder following their failure to win promotion to the Premier League.
Defeat to Sunderland at Wembley denied the Blades a return to the top flight and Wilder is now set to pay the price with his job.
Meetings involving United's hierarchy have taken place over the last week during which Wilder's future became the leading subject.
But while he had support from some directors, the club's owners have decided to make a change and go in a different direction.
Wilder had plenty of backing from United supporters given he is widely regarded as the greatest manager in the club's history.
The majority felt he was worth sticking with, but there were a minority who felt losing to Sunderland should be the final straw, despite going so close to promotion.
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Rumours had been doing the rounds that there was a disagreement over the club's recruitment model which leans heavily on AI, but the Sheffield Star has said this is not the case.
The split between Wilder and United is said to have been amicable although his exit has not been officially confirmed, presumably while the Blades look to firm up who will replace him to reduce the fallout.
Gary O'Neil was reportedly lined up to take charge but it is claimed that he is no longer an option after leaving Wolves.
Ruben Selles, sacked by Hull City, could be a possible contender.
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