Chris Wilder has defended striker Tom Cannon amid growing criticism from fans, insisting the forward still has what it takes to succeed at Sheffield United — though he admits the player has “made things difficult for himself” since joining the club.
Cannon, who signed from Leicester City in January for a reported fee of up to £10 million, has scored just once in 28 appearances across all competitions. The 23-year-old faced heavy criticism from supporters following a quiet performance in the midweek win over Blackburn Rovers, where substitute Tyrese Campbell came off the bench to seal the victory.
Ahead of United’s clash with Preston North End, Wilder addressed Cannon’s struggles and revealed that Sunderland were among several clubs chasing his signature before the Blades secured the deal.
“It was a club signing, and we all pushed it through,” Wilder explained. “Three quarters of the Championship wanted him — Sunderland included. We saw him as a long-term asset. He hasn’t hit the heights we hoped for yet, but he’s working hard. He had an early injury and then Tyrese came in and performed well, which made it harder for him to break back in.”
Wilder stressed that Cannon still has the full backing of the coaching staff but must seize any opportunity he gets.
“He needs to take his chances, whether that’s starting or coming off the bench,” he continued. “We believe in him, and we’re working closely with him both on the training ground and in analysis sessions. It’s a tough position, but it’s about patience and perseverance.”
The Blades boss acknowledged that Cannon’s lack of progress has frustrated some fans but maintained that the player’s story isn’t finished yet.
“He knows it’s been difficult, and he accepts the criticism,” Wilder said. “He’s still young, and it only takes a run of games or good form to turn things around. We’re not judging him on 20 or 25 games — he came here to help us push toward the Premier League, and we still believe he can do that.”
Wilder concluded by reaffirming that the coaching staff will continue to support Cannon’s development:
“There was serious competition for him — Sunderland wanted him on loan with an option to buy. That tells you the level of talent people see in him. Now it’s about him staying focused, working hard, and proving what he can do.”
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