The non-negotiable task anyone wanting to replace Chris Wilder at Sheffield United MUST be able to complete

The ‘United World’ project, first revealed by The Star last year, is still at the developmental stage following the creation of Al-Hilal United in Dubai, while Prince Abdullah has also made a significant investment in Belgian side Beerschot. Kerala United, based in southwestern India, and Chateauroux of France recently joined them under the UW umbrella.

Chris Wilder whose successful reign is coming to an end, preferred to focus his recruitment model on domestic based signings - a policy which helped deliver two promotions and a ninth placed finish in the Premier League before this season’s downturn in fortunes.

But his replacement is set to be encouraged to make more use of UW, which members of United’s hierarchy believe can help them negotiate some of the obstacles created by Brexit and recruit and develop emerging talent.

Despite being in existence for some time, UW rose to prominence during the summer window when Ismaila Coulibaly was signed by United before immediately being dispatched on loan to Beerschot.

Previously of Sarpsborg 08, the 20-year-old became an integral member of Hernan Losada’s squad but Wilder did not consider triggering a recall clause in the deal which took him to the Olympisch Stadion. Although Coulibaly’s influence has waned since Losada’s switch to the MLS, he still features regularly under the Argentine’s successor William Still.

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