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The ‘full tilt’ Chris Wilder comments that should act as a warning to Sunderland and Regis Le Bris
Sunderland and Sheffield United Secure Championship Play-Off Berths
Sunderland and Sheffield United have both clinched spots in next month’s Championship play-offs, but their paths to the post-season have taken noticeably different routes.
In recent weeks, Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris has opted to rest and rotate several key players, aiming to preserve fitness ahead of the play-offs. However, this strategy has coincided with a dip in form, as the Black Cats have now suffered four straight league defeats. Notably, their 2-0 loss to Oxford United on Saturday came with a lineup that was much closer to full strength—raising fresh concerns about their readiness for the high-stakes matches to come.
With just one fixture remaining—a home game against QPR—before their play-off campaign begins, some Sunderland supporters are beginning to question the wisdom of disrupting the team’s rhythm in the name of caution.
In contrast, Sheffield United, who secured third place weeks ago, have taken a different approach. While other clubs like Bristol City, Coventry, Millwall, Middlesbrough, and Blackburn are still battling for a top-six finish and can’t afford to rotate, the Blades have kept their foot on the gas despite their secure standing. Manager Chris Wilder has made some changes, but has largely kept his core players active, aiming to maintain form and confidence.
Wilder emphasized the importance of momentum after his side’s 2-0 win over Stoke City on Friday:
“Getting back to winning ways was key. A lot’s been going on this week, but the group’s energy has been fantastic. Some might have expected us to ease off, but that’s not how it works. You can’t flick a switch—momentum matters, and we gave everything in what was a tough game.”
For Sunderland, those words may be a cautionary note. Should they fail to beat QPR, they’ll enter the play-offs without a win in six matches. If Wilder is right, regaining top form on demand could prove extremely difficult.
Of course, if Sunderland do go on to win promotion, Le Bris’ rotation policy will be viewed as smart and effective. But until then, the debate around the value of momentum is likely to persist.
