Sheffield United, Smart Management

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I was reading an article about Sheffield United and was pretty impressed with what I read. For most of us it has come as a surprise seeing them so high in the table and possibly scooping the much cherished fourth spot and a ticket into the Champions League next season.

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Surely would be manager of the season if Klopp wasn't doing what he was with Liverpool.

Chris Wilder has performed miracles with his squad when most would have expected them to be propping up the foot of the table. Lets be honest most teams that get promoted are lucky to survive the first year and aren't meant to be challenging for any honors.

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Looking at their next fixtures they should win these and climb higher into the fourth spot.

I think it is a mixture of how poor the other teams really are blowing hot and cold compared to a team that has been solid and consistent so far. Every team they have played against has struggled to put them away and that is down to some solid tactics and good management. They are not a team of big names, but they are just good solid players.

What I find interesting is that the first team squad has a wage structure which they will not budge on no matter who the player is. They have not lost one player to other clubs due to how they operate. The manager Chris Wilder is given a budget which he works within his means. Players are rewarded on top of their market value contracts with a performance reward that is merited only for those that perform well. This gets everyone focused and on track to perform at their best. These guys are hungry and the only way they can get more is by performing.

This has created a team spirit with everyone being happy and no discontent or jealousies in the changing room. I think this really is the key as every player knows his true value and knowing that no other player is making bucket loads more than you has created a sense of harmony.

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The squad was in Dubai to have a short break.

Sheffield United are on track to possibly making the Champions League next season and it will be something new for everyone. I would love to see them try and keep all of their players if that happens as surely other teams will come with a cheque book at some point.

I know other teams have struggled to keep their budgets down as they have bought players in on high salaries. Sheffield United were promoted from the Championship and would love to know how much more the players received this season being in the Premiership. Whatever happens the club will have a huge profit for just being in the Premiership and should have one of the healthiest balance sheets around. This just goes to show you that you don't need to just throw money at a team to succeed ,all you need is a team that plays for each other.