United's International contingent will be given leave of absence to help re-charge their batteries when the full squad returns at the end of this month.

Whilst Kevin Blackwell has insisted that every squad member - fit or otherwise - must make every effort to be at Shirecliffe ready and raring to go when the time comes, he has sensibly recognised that burnout through constant playing needs to be avoided:

"The likes of Carney, Naysmith and Shelton need a break from International duty to refresh them, for example Luton is playing right up until 20 June!

"They won't be required to return until a week after the rest because they will have retained a high level of fitness anyway through a summer's playing."

Scottish International Naysmith has returned with a slight groin problem but the United boss reports no long term damage was found after the player had a scan.

Blackwell's summer travels included going to Dubai to watch David Carney play for Australia against Iraq, as well as Brazil where he has held discussions with Sao Paulo counterparts about how the two clubs can best utilise their partnership agreement.

Meanwhile, the Blades are closely monitoring the Euro 2008 competition with the results of watching briefs being sent back to the scouting network at the Lane to discuss:

"We are watching games to see if any possibilities come to light that fit what we are looking for - but I am well aware that values of players who shine over there will no doubt rocket out of all proportion.

"Reputations can be made in a short time that don't necessarily reflect what a player could do for us over a full season of Championship football."