His equaliser for Luton against Arsenal with seven minutes remaining in the 1988 final is arguably the most famous match-saving goal in the club's history.

12 months later, after a disappointing season, Wilson was appointed player-manager after Viv Anderson left to become assistant manager to Bryan Robson at Middlesbrough.

Although their stay lasted only a single season before relegation, Wilson's side reached the FA Cup quarter finals knocking out favourites Manchester United in the fifth round.

In 1998–99, Wilson guided Sheffield Wednesday to a respectable 12th place in the Premier League and had hopes for a top half finish the following season.

Bassetlaw MP Joe Ashton said after his sacking: "Danny was a lovely fellow, but he couldn't do it (manage Sheffield Wednesday).

Wilson brought in many new signings, including Gordon Greer, Alan O'Brien, Jonathan Douglas, David Lucas and Charlie Austin[11] After getting Swindon into the 10 League 1 Play-off Final, the club lost 0–1 against Millwall F.C.

On 2 March 2011, Wilson resigned his post after a poor run of form that had seen the club slip into the relegation zone.

As part of the restructure of the Blades managerial setup, captain Chris Morgan was promoted to a player-coach position.

[13] Wilson made a positive start at the Blades, winning his first league game in charge with a 2–0 victory over Oldham Athletic.

Wilson won the League One manager of the month award for October 2012 after guiding the Blades into the automatic promotion places, including a 19-game unbeaten run in all competitions.

[20] Wilson was sacked as Chesterfield manager on 8 January 2017, following a 2–0 defeat at Bradford City, after a poor run of results.

Wilson lives in Chesterfield with his wife Karen, daughter Carrie and[21][22] his son, Laurie, who played non-league football.