Chris Wilder’s Sheffield United will feel they are serious candidates for automatic promotion this season after missing out on the play-offs last year.

The Blades are third in the table after their draw with Stoke City on Tuesday night, which makes it two without a win following the international break.

On the night, Wilder’s side were far superior, and dominated Stoke in all aspects. Gary Rowett – who watched on from the stands following his touchline ban – had to endure a night where his team were choked back and only allowed a rare counter-attack.

If Sheffield United are to go up, they have to start winning those sorts of games though.

The Championship is won and lost on fine margins and Wilder will look to ensure his side can start to pick up more wins going forward.

One way he may want to do that is by signing some reinforcements across the pitch in January and maybe look for experience from the Premier League which could help the Blades to promotion.

Unlike some managers, Wilder has a plan A of his 3-4-1-2, and he sticks with it. Should they need a goal, he won’t change his formation, nor will he do so if they are chasing a game.

This must make the profile of player Wilder likes obvious for the scouts.

Here, we look at THREE players the Blades scouting team surely will have their eye on ahead of the January window…

Phil Jagielka started his career at Sheffield United and made a serious name for himself with his performances at Bramall Lane.

‘Jags’ went on to have an illustrious career with Everton and England, but now he is now in and out of Marco Silva’s Everton side.

Moving back to Sheffield would complete a great career for the defender who is struggling for minutes on Merseyside, so if Wilder could tempt him back, it would be a great deal for both parties.

While Dean Henderson is winning many plaudits for his performances at the club, his deal is only a loan and he could head back to Manchester in the summer.

For that reason, Wilder may be in the market for an experienced ‘keeper he can sign on a permanent deal.

Tom Heaton ticks all the boxes of what Sheffield United are looking for in a goalkeeper and his experience would be crucial – he is commanding, a great shot stopper, and not bad with his feet.

Similar to the Phil Jagielka story, Gary Cahill also had a stint at Sheffield United.

Cahill has played huge roles in a couple of title wins for Chelsea under various coaches, but is nowhere near the first team anymore, with David Luiz and Antonio Rudiger seeming hard to drop at the moment.

Cahill may have to look elsewhere for regular game time at the end of his career, and if Sheffield United could afford his wages, it would be a great coup. Cahill’s experience could be crucial if the Blades are to challenge for promotion.