[long_read]

What a season is has been for Sheffield United and their manager Chris Wilder.

Right in the promotion mix despite spending far less than some of their rivals, the Blades are some people's favourites to go all the way and win promotion to the Premier League.

Wilder has instilled a belief and a playing style among his Blades squad that is second to none, and if they can keep putting in displays like they have in the last month or so, then there is every chance a top two spot is theirs for the taking come the end of April.

There has been some mighty fine displays from United this term, and it got us here at FLW thinking about some of the performances which might have just stood out that little bit more than the rest.

With their silky attacking football and solid defence, the Blades really are a team on the way up, and we took at look at THREE of their finest performances of this season so far...

[snack_break title="Aston Villa at home"]

A fine September day for the Blades as they smashed four past Aston Villa to remind the Championship that last season was no flash in the pan.

A crushing first half display from United saw O'Connell, Duffy, and Norwood all get in on the act, while talisman Billy Sharp added a fourth in the second period.

It was a fine display from Wilder's men, and one which had a big purpose about it so early in the season.

[snack_break title="Derby County at home"]

After losing out to the Rams at Pride Park earlier in the season, revenge was sweet for the Blades as they dismantled Lampard's men at Bramall Lane.

A good first half followed by an even better second paved the way for David McGoldrick to seal all three points and put United firmly in contention for the top six at the same time.

[snack_break title="Norwich City away"]

While it was a game that didn't end in three points for United, it was a crucial showing and one which showed they are right up for the promotion fight.

A 2-2 draw was just deserved for the Blades, who had Billy Sharp to thank for both goals.

With Norwich in such fine form at the top of the league, this was a showing from United which put them right on par with the Canaries at the very least.

[/long_read]