4.54% supercomputer statistic outlines mammoth task ahead of Chris Wilder at Sheffield United

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Incoming Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder will arrive at Bramall Lane with aspirations of promotion, but his chances appear slim this season.

Sheffield United have sacked Ruben Selles following five Championship defeats, where they only found the back of the net once.

Their recent 5-0 defeat to Ipswich Town was the end of the road for Selles, whose side had conceded the joint-most goals in the Championship, while showing no signs of promise in the final third.

The Blades’ owners, COH Sports, have admitted their mistake by parting ways with Selles early on in his tenure, with Chris Wilder set to return to Sheffield United.

Ahead of Wilder’s return to S2, we have taken a look at how likely his promotion chances are this season.

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Supercomputer predicts Sheffield United difficulty following Chris Wilder return

Sheffield United fans have been left fearing the worst, with their side sitting rockbottom of the Championship.

For Blades’ supporters, optimism has been raised with the news of Wilder’s return to the club, and while the primary objective for the incoming Sheffield United boss will be dragging them from the mires of the relegation zone, some will be hoping for a surprise promotion push.

According to the OPTA Analyst supercomputer, Sheffield United’s chances of winning the title stand at just 1.6%, while automatic promotion is 4.54% likely.

A play-off finish would be regarded as a success for Wilder, and that is 14.86% likely this season, while the prospect of relegation has a 10.28% chance.

With a top-six finish more likely than relegation, many Sheffield United fans may be more optimistic, knowing that Wilder is returning to steer the ship to safety.

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Chris Wilder deserves fan patience on his return

Chris Wilder’s side reached the play-off final last season before suffering heartbreak at the hands of Sunderland.

Aside from the fall at the final hurdle, it was a phenomenal season by Sheffield United, who were able to stay in the running for automatic promotion for the majority of the 2024/25 campaign.

It is clear that Wilder has the ability to get the very best out of this group of players, but that may not happen overnight.

The current crop of players have their own difficulties, but with the benefit of time, many can confidently say that Wilder will be able to turn things around at Sheffield United.