Sheffield United handed mixed injury news as Chris Wilder provides Kalvin Phillips and Femi Seriki update

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has delivered an update on Kalvin Phillips and Femi Seriki ahead of the Blades’ Championship meeting with Portsmouth at Fratton Park on Wednesday night.

Phillips was close to featuring in Saturday’s victory over Lincoln City, but Wilder opted against taking a risk after the Manchester City loanee experienced tightness in his abductor muscle.

The midfielder could have played, according to the United boss, but the club decided to exercise caution rather than risk aggravating the problem.

Meanwhile, Seriki will miss both the Portsmouth encounter and Saturday’s fixture against Bristol City as he continues his recovery from injury.

Wilder explained that the right-back needs more time to rebuild his fitness after spending a significant period out of action.

“He won’t be available for Wednesday night and Saturday. We need to build him up,” the manager said.

The Sheffield United boss stressed that Seriki’s recovery must be handled carefully, with the club keen to ensure he can return and remain fit for the remainder of the campaign.

Although the defender will not be available for the next two matches, Wilder suggested that a return against Derby County on October 24 could be possible.

Seriki’s absence has forced United to look elsewhere for cover at right-back, with Hamza Choudhury stepping into the position after joining from Leicester City on a free transfer during the summer.

Wilder praised Choudhury’s performances but made it clear that Seriki’s eventual return would be an important boost for the squad.

“Hamza’s done great in that position, but Femi coming back in is really important,” he said, indicating that the young defender could be available for selection against Derby.

For now, Sheffield United must navigate a busy run of fixtures without Seriki, while Phillips’ fitness will remain a situation to monitor.

The Blades will hope the decision to manage Phillips’ recent discomfort pays off, allowing the midfielder to return without further complications as Wilder prepares his side for the trip to Portsmouth.