Speaking to the BBC, Chris Wilder has praised Carlos Carvalhal ahead of the Steel City derby this weekend.

Wilder’s Sheffield United side go up against Carvalhal’s Sheffield Wednesday on Sunday afternoon in the first Steel City derby for a number of years at Hillsborough.

Wilder has moved to praise Carvalhal, who has led Wednesday to back-to-back play-off appearances in the last two years, for the work he has done since his arrival in South Yorkshire, he said:

“They've been in this division for a long time and obviously done fantastically well in the last two years under Carlos, who I really like, I've got to say.

“I've done a couple of bits and pieces with him - he's a real genuine guy, and from their point of view, they've been at the top of the division for the last two years and will be looking to get out of the division.”

Ahead of the Steel City derby, both Sheffield clubs have made an excellent start to the 2017/18 campaign, with Wilder and Carvalhal looking to establish their respective clubs in the race for promotion.

The Blades enter Sunday’s contest looking to return to winning ways following last weekend’s defeat to Norwich City, but remain in a strong position, sat sixth in the Sky Bet Championship table.

Wilder’s side have 15 points from their opening eight fixtures, and sit three places and two points above the Owls, who are unbeaten in the Championship since the opening day of the season.

Sheffield United have been handed a huge boost ahead of the derby, with confirmation that Paul Coutts will be available, with the FA dropping their investigation following an off-the-ball incident against Norwich.

The Verdict

Ahead of their first meeting in a Steel City derby, there is an obvious respect from Wilder towards Carvalhal for all that he has achieved since his arrival in Sheffield.

However, Wilder’s tone throughout the interview suggests that he and his players will be more than up for the challenge at Hillsborough, with the contest a perfect opportunity for the Blades to make a statement to the rest of the Championship.

Of course, more is at stake than just three points, but for now that will be the only thing on Wilder’s mind.

Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday fans… Let us know your thoughts!