Wrexham forward Josh Windass has ignited a firestorm of criticism from Sheffield United fans after questioning the intensity of their celebrations following a decisive Steel City derby victory.
Post-Match Analysis Sparks Controversy
The incident occurred during Windass's appearance as a pundit for Sky Sports, analysing Sheffield United's 3-0 win against his former club, Sheffield Wednesday. The match, played on Sunday at Hillsborough, saw the Blades secure a crucial victory with a double from Tyrese Campbell and a late goal from substitute Tom Cannon.
Following the final whistle, manager Chris Wilder and his squad engaged in enthusiastic celebrations with the travelling supporters. However, Windass, who spent five years at Wednesday before joining Wrexham in July, suggested the reaction was excessive.
"I'm not sure about all these celebrations," Windass remarked during the broadcast. "Sheffield United were the favourites to go and win today with the squad of players they've got and the situation they're in. But I thought they played really well, I thought they took their chances well."
Fan Backlash Erupts on Social Media
Windass's comments quickly circulated on social media platform X, drawing an angry response from Blades supporters who felt he misunderstood the passion of the local rivalry.
One frustrated fan posted: "So you can't celebrate a win over your nearest rivals anymore? The game has gone."
Another supporter targeted Windass's personal connection to the fixture, writing: "If Windass can't understand why Blades fans would celebrate a derby like that, it probably explains why he wasn't able to win a derby."
The sentiment was echoed by a third individual who emphasised the derby's significance: "The amount of people questioning the celebrations have no idea just how big this rivalry is. Winning this fixture is everything."
Contrasting Perspectives Emerge
Despite his criticism of the celebrations, Windass did praise United's performance overall. Meanwhile, Blades manager Chris Wilder offered a more diplomatic perspective after the match, commending the loyalty of Wednesday players like captain Barry Bannan and Liam Palmer.
Speaking to BBC Radio Sheffield, Wilder stated: "I went up to Barry Bannan and Liam Palmer at the end of the game. I think the way they've handled the situation and conducted themselves is absolute credit to them, not just as professionals but humans really."
The victory moves Sheffield United to within one point of safety in the Championship, though they remain in the relegation zone. Sheffield Wednesday sit bottom of the table on -4 points following a 12-point deduction for entering administration last month.
Windass departed Wednesday during the summer after activating a contract clause amid the club's financial troubles, citing broken promises and delayed wage payments. He has since made a strong start with Wrexham, contributing five goals and three assists for the newly-promoted side.
