SHEFFIELD United manager Chris Wilder refused to 'batter' midfielder Joe Rothwell after a nightmare debut saw him dismissed just 35 minutes into his Blades career.
The interval substitute, who joined on deadline day from Glasgow Rangers, received his marching orders for a wild challenge on Middlesbrough's Alan Browne, which will incur a three-match ban.
Wilder had no issue with the red card, but did have some consoling words for the former Leeds United man afterwards.
Wilder, whose side lost 2-1 to his old club, said: "He understands that I don't have to 'batter' him. He knows it's a mistimed tackle out of frustration.
Sheffield, England, 9th February 2026. Joe Rothwell of Sheffield United is shown a red card during the Sheffield United vs Middlesbrough Sky Bet Championship match at Bramall Lane, Sheffield. Picture credit should read: Simon Bellis / Sportimageplaceholder image
Sheffield, England, 9th February 2026. Joe Rothwell of Sheffield United is shown a red card during the Sheffield United vs Middlesbrough Sky Bet Championship match at Bramall Lane, Sheffield. Picture credit should read: Simon Bellis / Sportimage
"He's paid the price. He doesn't have to prove anything. He's had a stellar career, especially in this division with promotions and stuff like that.
"He's got some work to do now, obviously as we've got three games without him. I suppose the one plus point is that we will get him up to speed."
He added: "It was great to get him (Phillips) on the pitch. He showed what he was about with a great pass for Gus (Hamer) and a fabulous goal. He's going to be a big player for us."
Sheffield, England, 9th February 2026. Chris Wilder manager of Sheffield United during the Sheffield United vs Middlesbrough Sky Bet Championship match at Bramall Lane, Sheffield. Picture credit should read: Andrew Yates / Sportimageplaceholder image
Sheffield, England, 9th February 2026. Chris Wilder manager of Sheffield United during the Sheffield United vs Middlesbrough Sky Bet Championship match at Bramall Lane, Sheffield. Picture credit should read: Andrew Yates / Sportimage
Wilder complimented Boro afterwards and said the new leaders were the best side United had faced since his return to the club. Equally he pointed to his side's progression since the reverse fixture last August.
Wilder commented: "It was possibly the most comfortable 1-0 victory any team could ever have.
"I didn't think this was a 15th/16th/17th placed team against a second-placed team. Ultimately, they've got the win and we've got work to do to get up to where they are.”