WILD AT HEART

JOHN LYONS REPORTS ON CHRIS WILDER'S RETURN TO MANAGEMENT WITH MIDDLESBROUGH...

- JOHN LYONS

WHEN new Middlesbrough boss Chris Wilder spoke to the press pack for the first time after being appointed, he was asked what he’d learned from his eight months out of the game since leaving Sheffield United.

“That my golf doesn’t get any better the more I play!” he quipped.

Yet the simple fact was that the 54-year-old was never likely to find more satisfaction in hitting golf shots than he does in winning three points. Managing has been in his blood for the last two decades, working his way up the ladder via Alfreton Town, Halifax Town, Oxford United, Northampton Town and Sheffield United.

He might not be at a Town or United this time around, but Boro represents a brilliant opportunity for him to get stuck back into life in the dugout.

“I’m excited about the challenge ahead and delighted to get back into work really because it’s been a while,” admitted Wilder, who kicked off with a 1-1 home draw against Millwall. “I enjoyed the first part of the break but as soon as pre-season started, people got back into work and the games came thick and fast, that’s where I wanted to be. I’ve missed it enormously.

“I’m delighted I feel this way instead of wanting to walk the dog, play golf or line up something in the media, though I’ve enjoyed my little bit of that.”

Although his final season at Sheffield United turned sour as they struggled for points in the Premier League – he left by mutual consent in March – Wilder has still got plenty of credit in the bank. Taking the Blades all the way from League One to the top-flight and a ninth-placed finish in their first season back at the top table was mightily impressive by anyone’s standards.