Statement from Sheffield United FC
Sheffield United and team manager Nigel Adkins have parted company, it was announced today (12th May).
Mr Adkins took over in June 2015 on a three year contract but has been relieved of his duties after one season.
The following is a statement from the Club:
"A decision has been made by the board of Sheffield United for Nigel to depart immediately. Nigel is a gentleman and, as proved by his record, a very good manager, but the overriding aim is promotion from League One and the Club feels that this is the correct time to make a change.
"We will now begin the process of bringing in a new manager. We hope to make an appointment very shortly, with promotion from this division once again the priority. This is a decision made jointly between the co-owners and is the result of discussions between board members and colleagues.
"We sincerely wish Nigel and his backroom staff, Andy Crosby and Dean Wilkins all the best for the future."
Mr Adkins commented: "I am proud and honoured to have been the manager of Sheffield United but saddened to leave after just one season. I am naturally very disappointed not to be able to continue the good work going on behind the scenes, which I am confident will be of benefit to the Club going forward. I wish the Club and the supporters the best of luck for the future."
Sheffield United will not make any further comment at this stage.
http://www.sufc.co.uk/news/article/sheffield-united-nigel-adkins-3109392.aspxBlades appoint Wilder as new manager
Sheffield United have tempted the boss of League Two champions Northampton Town to be the new man to lead the Blades.
Chris Wilder takes over as Sheffield United manager with immediate effect, having agreed a three-year contract.
He brings with him credentials of a modern, successful manager following spells with Alfreton Town, Halifax Town, Oxford United and Northampton Town, with whom he secured the Sky Bet League Two title just last month.
Chris will be assisted by former Rotherham United defender and manager, Alan Knill, his trusted number two at Northampton.
Speaking on behalf of the club's joint owners, Kevin McCabe said: "We are delighted to appoint Chris, he has a fantastic reputation. He understands the ethos of our club and is a modern 21st century manager
"We are aware that Chris is popular with the supporters, however, this is not a sentimental appointment, he has a proven track record and is hungry to bring success to the Blades.
"He has a vision of success, knows what is required by the supporters and we will assist him as much as we can. Early talks have been positive and we look forward to a new era at Bramall Lane."
Chris needs little introduction in South Yorkshire. He is a self-confessed United fan, former Blades player and resident of the city.
He said: "A lot of supporters already know me and those who don't will soon realise that I am loyal, hard-working, straight-talking, thorough and whole-hearted in everything that I do.
"Obviously, people know my connection with the club as a supporter and former player and I want Bramall Lane to return to be an intimidating place - I don't want the players to feel it is a burden, playing in front of 20,000 fans.
http://www.sufc.co.uk/news/article/sheffield-united-chris-wilder-3110596.aspxChris Wilder: Sheffield United appoint Northampton boss to replace Nigel Adkins
http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/36274419