Chris Wilder remained coy when questioned about the ongoing absence of loan defender Ben Godfrey

Chris Wilder remained coy when questioned about the ongoing absence of loan defender Ben Godfrey from Sheffield United’s matchday squads. The defender, on loan from Atalanta, hasn’t featured for the Blades since the 1-0 home defeat to Charlton over a month ago.

His initial omission was attributed to “personal reasons,” but with no sign of his return since, fans have begun to question whether the former Everton man will play for the club again. When asked ahead of the Preston North End clash if there was any update or timeline for Godfrey’s comeback, Wilder kept his response brief:

“He’s just unavailable at the moment… No, there’s no timescale — he’s just unavailable.”

While tight-lipped on Godfrey’s situation, Wilder was more forthcoming when addressing Femi Seriki’s recent absence. The youngster has lost his place to Chieo Ogbene, who has impressed as the club’s first-choice right wing-back.

“Femi was part of the group that struggled early in the season,” Wilder explained. “He’s still learning and needs to raise his standards. There’s real competition now — Jamie Shackleton has played that position in both the Premier League and the Championship and knows what’s required.

“Just because Femi did well last season doesn’t mean he’s guaranteed a place. It’s about taking your chance to impress when it comes.”