Chris Wilder has given his immediate reaction to Leeds United’s victory over Sheffield United at Elland Road.
The Whites were dominant throughout the game and finally got their just rewards thanks to goals from Pascal Struijk and Mateo Joseph in the second half.
Sheffield United were the only remaining unbeaten side across the entire EFL heading into this round of fixtures but Leeds restricted them to not a single shot on target.
Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell were arguably Leeds’ stand-outs on the night but in fairness, there wasn’t a single poor performance in a white shirt.
Wilder put the pressure on Leeds’ promotion bid prior to the match but Daniel Farke‘s side certainly showed no signs of that with their performance.
Wilder on Leeds after Sheffield United defeat
No team had accumulated more points or conceded less goals than Sheffield United prior to last night and it was easy to see why at times.
Blades were able to keep Leeds at arms length for much of the opening hour but the determination to keep the pressure on is what earned three points.
Leeds are now above Sheffield United in the table having already played five of the top seven, with the sixth to come at home to Watford.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Wilder was not afraid to front up and admit his side were well beaten, stating Leeds are comfortably the best team they have come up against.
He said: “We were beaten by the better side, no doubt about it. We didn’t have any answers to them. They are the best team we have played so far this season, no disrespect to all the other teams we have played, so yeah, it’s a disappointing evening for us all, but we didn’t deserve anything from the game.
“They were better in all departments. Played quicker, sharper, greater attacking threat. Had bits and pieces of the game, but not enough to trouble them. Their squad is laden with quality. We have played no teams of this calibre before tonight.”
Wilder on why he changed tactics vs Leeds
Wilder has gone with a back four across the entire season so far but changed it for the first time all season at Elland Road.
Rhys Norrington-Davies came in for his first start, with Jamie Shackleton also coming in to help the Blades go to a five-at the-back.
Wilder says the performance of Southampton in the play-off final was what he looked to emulate, but his side simply weren’t good enough.
He said: “We study strengths and weaknesses. We knew Leeds was head and shoulders above everything we’ve already played. No minds games or put pressure on them. They were disappointed they did not go up last season. We looked at Southampton games and play-off final.
“We changed it to get the best from the game. I have to take that criticism. I could have easily gone with what we had before, but this is why I have managed so many years. Had to back myself and the plan tonight.”
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