Chris Wilder hails Jordan Ayew after impressive first start in Sheffield United victory

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has praised Ghana forward Jordan Ayew following an encouraging performance in his side’s Championship victory over Bristol City.

Ayew, 35, was named in the starting line-up and played 69 minutes as Sheffield United secured a narrow win, bouncing back from their midweek defeat and climbing up the Championship standings.

The former Leicester City striker made a positive contribution in his first start for the Blades since joining the club as a free agent in the summer. He completed 13 accurate passes, made five defensive contributions and won three of his eight ground duels.

Although Ayew is yet to score or provide an assist since arriving at Bramall Lane, his work rate and contribution to the team’s overall performance earned praise from Wilder.

Speaking after the match, the Sheffield United manager said he was delighted with the Ghanaian’s display and highlighted his role in helping the team press their opponents and regain control of the game.

“We made some changes to the starting unit, delighted for Jordan,” Wilder said.

“His performance was really good, allowed us to go and press and get after them and allow us for them to go wrong for us to break up and control the game.

“Hopefully it’s a great boost for his confidence, but him and Kalvin Phillips were exceptional and outstanding.”

Wilder’s comments will be encouraging for Ayew as he continues to settle into life at Sheffield United following his departure from Leicester City.

The experienced forward has made four appearances across competitions for the Blades since joining the club, and his first start represents another opportunity to establish himself as an important part of the squad.

While goals and assists remain the obvious measures of a forward’s contribution, Ayew’s latest display suggests he can also offer valuable experience, defensive effort and pressing ability as Sheffield United look to build momentum in the Championship.

For the Ghana international, Wilder’s public backing could provide a timely confidence boost as he looks to turn his promising performance into a more decisive contribution in the matches ahead.