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The EFL witnessed another day of compelling action, marked by unexpected outcomes and decisive victories.
Sheffield United’s reunion with Chris Wilder began poorly with a defeat to Charlton, while Queens Park Rangers extended their winning streak against a strong Stoke City side.
Wrexham continued to impress in the Championship, while Bradford City and Gillingham have both made strong statements in Leagues One and Two respectively.
In a surprising turn, Sheffield United re-appointed Chris Wilder for his third managerial stint, replacing Ruben Selles after just two months. However, their homecoming was spoiled by a 1-0 defeat to Charlton at Bramall Lane, with the decisive goal arriving in the 90th minute.
Parkin: “Many anticipated a positive reaction from the crowd and players to Chris Wilder’s return. Clearly, Sheffield United faces challenges, though none insurmountable given the early stage of the season. A lack of confidence and chemistry is apparent.
“Losing seven consecutive games is concerning at any level. A quick fix was never on the cards.
“Creativity is lacking; they’ve only scored once in the league. Replacing the contributions of players like Jesurun Rak-Sakyi and Kieffer Moore, and reigniting Gustavo Hamer’s influence, will be key focuses for Wilder. He is a game changer.
“They currently lack a clear identity, unlike Charlton and Nathan Jones, who know precisely what they’re about.”
Charlton spoil Wilder’s Sheff Utd homecoming
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Phil Parkinson’s Wrexham have risen to 15th in the Championship table.
Wrexham secured an impressive 3-2 victory against Norwich at Carrow Road, moving level on points with their opponents thanks to a brace from Josh Windass and a goal from Ryan Longman.
Parkin: “Phil Parkinson implemented significant changes this season, primarily in personnel rather than style. They possess a strong squad with the capacity to adapt.
“Adaptability in the starting lineup is a hallmark of a good manager. Despite facing criticism, his approach proved highly effective.
“Norwich’s open style of play likely suited Wrexham, given the number of chances they concede.
“While Wrexham are creating opportunities, their defense needs improvement. I’m confident they’ll score goals, but defensive solidity is crucial.
“They narrowly secured the win. I have few concerns about Wrexham due to their squad depth.”
Parkinson cites Wrexham journey amid ‘outside talk’
Wrexham earn impressive comeback win at Norwich
Harvey Vale scored his first goal for QPR against Stoke.
Following a heavy 7-1 defeat to Coventry, Queens Park Rangers have rebounded strongly, securing their third consecutive victory with a 1-0 win over Stoke.
Parkin: “The Coventry defeat appears to have been a turning point for QPR, prompting the manager to reassess certain aspects.
“QPR’s frontline now looks promising. While Ruman Burrell and Richard Kone have recently grabbed headlines, Harvey Vale has consistently performed well and marked his first goal today. There’s considerable excitement, and Julien Stephan has displayed commendable tactical flexibility.
“Early-season possession struggles seem resolved; instructions appear more straightforward, and the team boasts considerable pace and quality upfront. They managed the game effectively today.
“Three consecutive wins after a sluggish start should inspire optimism.”
Vale strike against Stoke earns QPR third straight win
Stephan reveals he nearly subbed Vale off
Bradford City ascended to the top of League One after a 3-1 victory at Cardiff, inflicting the Welsh side’s first defeat following their relegation from the Championship.
Parkin: “Despite Cardiff’s promising start, I wasn’t entirely surprised by this outcome. Bradford are a very capable team; their intense style was likely to disrupt Cardiff.
“Cardiff have adopted a high-possession approach under Brian Barry-Murphy, exhibiting patience in their build-up play. Bradford’s tendency to swarm opponents proved effective.
“They are a strong side, and they’ve quality as well. There is consistency with the system from last season, continuity with the manager, brilliant at Valley Parade.
“I have no doubt that Bradford could be a top-half side, maybe even better. I wouldn’t be surprised if they had a crack at another promotion.”
Cardiff ‘naive’ in first defeat – Barry-Murphy
Bradford stun Cardiff to move top of League One
Gareth Ainsworth assumed the managerial role at Gillingham in March.
Gareth Ainsworth’s Gillingham demonstrated resilience, coming from behind to defeat Newport 3-1 and maintain their strong start, placing them atop League Two.
Parkin: “It was another impressive display of strength, overcoming an early deficit and the possibility of falling further behind. Their ability to overturn deficits has been a recurring theme this season.
“They possess considerable quality in attacking areas, with excellent options in Bradley Dack and Jonny Williams playing behind the striker. Dack proved pivotal today.
“Gillingham have momentum and a manager who is so intense and demanding. I have no doubt they’ll be in the promotion reckoning come the end of the season. Gareth Ainsworth deserves great credit.”
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Sam Parkin was speaking to BBC Sport England’s Harry De Cosemo
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