Speed had two offers to return to his native country turned down by the Blades. United boss Kevin Blackwell was in defiant mood and didn't want to lose any more of his backroom staff. The set-up has been severely disrupted in the off-season for some reason or another. Goalkeeping coach Andy Leaning has left and been replaced, and deputy fitness coach Carl Serrant has joined Neil Warnock at Queens Park Rangers.
Speed, 40-years-old, brought down the curtain on his playing career with Sheffield United and was keen to remain with the Blades in a coaching role. The Welshman is predominantly on the sidelines with Kevin Blackwell and instructs players whilst games are in progress.
Managerless Swansea highlighted Speed as their number one target, but they had to turn their attentions elsewhere and recruited Brendan Rodgers as their first team boss instead.
Kevin Blackwell said: "We've dealt with the situation, Gary is staying and that's all I'm worried about.
"At this moment in time I would be loath to lose a senior member of staff so close to the beginning of the season.
"Gary is a level-headed lad, he wants to learn, and he can, and he's thoroughly enjoying his time here. We believe that Gary will be staying with us for next season and we're delighted with that."
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