Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has said he cannot guarantee midfielder Paul Coutts a starting place in his team following the Scot's return from injury.

The influential Coutts made his return to league action this week following a broken leg which ended his entire campaign last time out, but Wilder has told the Sheffield Star that Coutts - just like young forward Ben Woodburn - will have to earn his place in the squad.

"I don't have to fit Paul Coutts in," Wilder said.

"Just like I don't have to fit any player in. "They have to play well to get in. If the best team has him in it, then he'll be in it. If he doesn't, then he won't.

Wilder introduced Coutts as a second half substitute in the mid-week win over Blackburn, with the midfielder playing a key part as United saw out the game 2-0 at Ewood Park.

The Blades manager also moved to address concerns over Liverpool youngster Woodburn, adding:

"We've spoken to Liverpool, we're in continual dialogue with them," he said. "Obviously they want him to play but they're happy. We've got no issue with Ben. He's just trying to get into a good team. The same as Couttsy is, the same as Danny Lafferty is, the same as Richard Stearman is and George Baldock is."

The Blades take on Hull City today with the potential to head into the international break top of the Championship after what has been another superb start to their Championship season.

Blades fans, do you agree? Will Coutts get back in or not? Let us know in the comments!

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