For Blackwell and Ellis... read Morecambe and Wise. Fish and chips. Posh and Becks.

Like those famous partnerships United's managerial duo seem to thrive through a combination of their talents and their matchday routine has seen them through at Leeds United, Luton Town and the Blades.

Whilst Kevin Blackwell is most definitely a technical area prowler, close to the action, his sidekick can usually be spotted casting an all-seeing eye on proceedings from the director's box.

It enables them to see things from a wider angle and 'Big Sam' explains why:

"You do get a different perspective from higher up in the stand because of being above the play, and you can get carried away by the emotion on the touchline.

"We are able to talk to each other by radio during play and compare thoughts ready for half-time when we put them together before talking to the players."

Although Ellis had considerable experience himself as a manger earlier in his career, he is more than comfortable with his current vantage point:

"I don't really miss being on the touchline because I have always done it since I've been working with Kevin. I feel as if I have a contribution to make and enjoy doing it.

"We have a good working relationship and spend a lot of time together in the week, probably more than we do at the weekends! We sometimes have different ideas but that is healthy and to be expected - it is what he decides on in the end that counts."

Ellis is in prime position to deliver a considered assessment of what he thinks it will take for the Blades to have a successful finale to the season:

"I think that our chances depend a lot on how strong our players are in their minds as much as on their ability. Technically and depth wise we may not be as strong as last season but these lads do have great attitude."