Richard Scarff, a Blades fan who took advantage of United's fans trip to Malta, brings us his first account of life on pre-season tour as a supporter.

With his wife, Sharron, and daughter, Alice, the family based in Derby are all season ticket holders at Bramall Lane and Dad reckons that his decision is proving a good one...

"We wanted a break so thought that we would kill two birds with one stone by combining it with the chance to see the team and officials abroad, especially as Kevin McCabe And Trevor Birch were also going to be there.

"Of course, we have seen the odd friendly fixture over the years but nothing on this scale that has more than just the matches on Friday on offer.

"On arrival at around 8pm in Malta on Sunday our transfer by taxi was smooth and we soon settled into our hotel in St Julian's Bay with just enough time to change and relax over a meal.

"The hotel we choose from those on offer - Corinthia St George - is at the top end of the scale but is real value for money and we are very happy with it.

"Tuesday dawned very hot but that is no surprise over here and we spent it relaxing by the pool. Incredibly, according to the hotel staff - who ought to know - it is going to get even hotter!

"In the evening there was a welcome event where we met the United staff who are responsible for the fans over in Malta for a rundown on what is on offer. Everyone was reassured by the fact that they were all glad to see us, approachable and very helpful.

"Our plan to see more of the island are for later in the week so Tuesday was another sun-soaked day by the pool, with the prospect of the Question and Answer session in the evening to look forward to at 9.30pm in a very posh hotel.

"With Kevin McCabe, Trevor Birch, Kevin Blackwell and Daniel Bogdanovic on the top table I think one or two fans might have clammed up a little bit to start with, but that soon passed and we heard all four speak at length.

"As usual, the Chairman presented himself very well and it was an enjoyable event in which all the questions offered were dealt with, including United's disciplinary record, the way Trevor Birch negotiates a transfer and Bogdanovic's obvious pleasure at joining the Blades.

"It goes without saying that all the fans seemed to be appreciative of the way the four had made themselves available to us, and for their friendliness afterwards when they were besieged for photographs and a few words of conversation."