Sheffield United can be proud of their start to the Sky Bet Championship season, with Chris Wilder’s side using the momentum gained from last year’s promotion to put themselves in firm contention for the play-offs this season.  

The Blades have looked the part at times, already claiming some big scalps during the first-half of the season, including Wolverhampton Wanderers, Leeds United and Sheffield Wednesday.

However, to Wilder’s own admission, his squad needs strengthening during the January transfer window if they are to maintain their promotion push.

Paul Coutts’ season-ending injury has left the Blades with a lack of quality in central midfield, and that is an area that Wilder must look to address during the January transfer window.

The likelihood is, whilst there will be additions made, exits will be on the agenda, with many of Wilder’s squad struggling to break into a small core of players who have been used regularly.

With that in mind, here is a look at TWO players Wilder should axe in early 2018…

James Hanson

Hanson has only been at Bramall Lane for a year, but the striker served his purpose last season, playing a vital role in helping the Blades achieve promotion back to the Championship.

However, in the second-tier, Hanson has struggled for opportunities, with the likes of Billy Sharp and Leon Clarke are ahead of Hanson in the pecking order, and with Wilder looking to strengthen in January, the striker could well be sacrificed.

Nathan Thomas

Thomas only arrived at Bramall Lane in the summer, but his opportunities have been limited, with Wilder struggling to find a way of fitting the winger into his trusted 3-5-2 formation.

The 23-year-old could well have a long-term future at Bramall Lane, but in January he could be pushing for a move, either permanently or on-loan.

At this current time, his addition is looking a bizarre piece of business.