Wilder Confident Rak-Sakyi and Souttar Will Stay at Sheffield United

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder is “incredibly confident” Jesurun Rak-Sakyi will continue with the club until the conclusion of the current season, prior to Friday’s match against Sunderland. The Crystal Palace loanee has become a key player in Wilder’s squads this season, participating in all 16 of the team’s initial Championship fixtures and making 11 starts. Rak-Sakyi, who has also scored in the Blades’ last two games and provided an assist against Coventry, signed a season-long loan agreement in August. Wilder dismissed discussions suggesting his parent club intended to recall him in January. “Mark Bright [Palace’s head of under-23’s development] was up at the game on Tuesday, so, we’re in constant communication with him – we’re incredibly confident that Jez will be with us,” Wilder told BBC Radio Sheffield. He added, “I spoke to him [Rak-Sakyi] as well about it and he’s got his head down and wants to stay for the season.” Wilder has also verified that Leicester City loanee Harry Souttar will remain at Bramall Lane until the end of May. This follows earlier rumours that the Foxes were looking to recall the Australian international after head coach Steve Cooper’s dismissal on Sunday. Wilder further explained: “I do believe, doing a little bit of digging, that from an appearance point of view with Harry he had to play a certain amount of games, or a certain percentage of amount of games, so he’s passed that now.” He concluded, “He’s here for the season which is great news for us.”