Warnock Cash Boost

The future of Neil Warnock has been surrounded in mystery all last week and was, only a few days ago resolved as he turned down an offer to join Portsmouth in the Premier League.

Naturally, this has boosted the club's moral both in the boardroom, players and to the fans. The players however rewarded his loyalty by beating Sheffield Wednesday 1-0 at Bramall Lane in the first Steel City Derby of the season, former Owl Alan Quinn netting the goal.

It also helped celebrate six years in charge of Sheffield United, he was appointed as manager on 2 December 1999 after celebrating his birthday only the day before.

Chairman Kevin McCabe told Sheffield Star; "We gave Neil the backing he required over the summer to make a concerted push this time around and, if he feels it is necessary, then he will receive that again when the window opens.

"We want to keep making progress, and it seems sensible to do that while things are going well rather than wait for a problem to occur."

It has been suggested that the Blades will hunt for a new centre-half and a striker and in recent weeks have been linked with Charlton defender Jonathan Fortune whilst others have suggested two from West Bromwich Albion.

Striker Robert Earnshaw looks to have lost his place and a 2 MILLION bid could bring him to Bramall Lane, whilst team mate Andy Johnson (midfielder) could join on a free.

The signing of Earnshaw could be a fruitful capture for the Blades but a signature of Johnson could send out a Blades revolt with the fans.

The Welsh international fell out of favour with the Blades fans during the 2001-02 season, when whilst at Nottingham Forest elbowed Georges Santos whom as a result almost lost the sight in his left eye, and subsequently has been booed ever since!

* Statistics do not include an appearance Jonathan Fortune may make today at home to Manchester City.