Sheffield Wednesday manager Darren Moore says he was gutted to hear of close friend Chris Wilder’s recent departure at rivals Sheffield United, Yorkshire Post report.
Wilder left Sheffield United after five years in charge at Bramall Lane.
The talented boss incredibly guided the Blades from League One to the Premier League, before then remarkably helping the Blades to a top ten finish last season.
But a season of struggle sees the Owls’ rivals destined for relegation.
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The Blades sit bottom of the Premier League with just 14 points, while question marks have been asked of the club’s spending last summer especially in the striker department.
When asked about Wilder’s departure, Moore said he was gutted for his close friend.
“I was gutted (after finding out he was leaving). He’s a personal friend of mine. I was really looking forward to catching up with him. I’m sure I will catch up with him as the dust settles. I’m sure it was a decision that Chris made with the best intentions of his family and the football club going forward. “I am really disappointed because he has done a marvellous job there but he felt it was right time to step down. It is a remarkable achievement what he has done at the football club from when he took over and where he has left it,” Moore explained.
Moore’s comments aren’t expected to be echoed by many Wednesday supporters.
The Owls have had to look on in envy at the Blades’ recent success while Wednesday’s own aspirations of promotion have been dwindling for a few years now.
Wednesday arguably missed the boat under former manager Carlos Carvalhal.
Since then, owner Dejphon Chansiri has had to tighten the purse-strings while several managerial changes, a points deduction and contract situations have left the Owls in trouble.
The Sheffield derby is one of the most fascinating fixtures on the calendar.
But it’s looking increasingly likely it won’t occur again next season as the Owls find themselves seven points adrift of safety and staring at the real possibility of relegation to League One.
Also see: ‘I’m worried; Saving face’: Some Owls fans respond to Moore’s verdict on display vs Norwich
Also see: Coach responds to claims he will join Owls to work with ‘fantastic manager’ Moore
