United's Academy squad arrive back at Shirecliffe on Friday afternoon following their trip to Ireland.

The pre-season work out for the youngsters culminated in the Blades beating Arklow Town 4-3 at Bridgewater Centre Park.

Goals from Harry McGuire, Jordan Slew, Joe Ironside and Adam Hinchcliffe secured the win, in what was a good competitive workout, against more experienced opposition, but in truth United should have won the game by a greater margin in the eyes of new manager John Pemberton:

"It was a good game and because we played three 40 minute periods, it enabled all our lads to get some action at this early stage in pre-season.

"We managed to win the game which is pleasing, but in the end it could have been a lot more comfortable."

The tour also gave Pemberton the chances to get to know his players and after putting them through a rigorous training regime, which included a session on the beach.

The boss was delighted with the progress that has been made across the Irish Sea: "It has been good for the players in terms of getting to know me and also because of the programme we put them through.

"We had double training sessions, working on technical and tactical aspects and we also took the players to train in the sand dunes for something different. After that particular session all the lads were desperate to get into the freezing cold sea.

"It has been a really worthwhile trip and a great experience for everyone. The players will be given the weekend off to recuperate and then we will get everyone back together on Monday, ahead of the forthcoming friendlies."