Kevin Blackwell will be at the helm to lead Sheffield United's campaign to return to the Premier League next season.

That was the clear and unequivocal message from chairman Kevin McCabe today after discussions with his manager following the play-off final defeat against Burnley at Wembley.

"The club, players and the fans all took a blow after the Burnley game. We had been there before and we did not want to see another defeat.

"Kevin is no different. He has taken this club forward on the playing side from a difficult position in the league - only the season before last - to the edge of the play-offs.

"This season we have finished third in the league and narrowly missed out on automatic promotion.

"Defeat in the play-offs is cruel. People hurt from the experience. I suffered. But I want all Blades to know that the fight goes on and, like me, Kevin is up for the challenge.

"We have had frank and open discussions. Kevin is motivated and, like all at Bramall Lane, is up for the task of getting the Blades promoted next season."

Looking ahead to next season Mr McCabe said: "The club does lose its parachute payment for next season, but we have built solid financial and off the off-the-field foundations at Bramall Lane which will enable us to compete.

"Our business model will enable us to invest not only at academy level, where we have seen young players like Kyle Walker and Kyle Naughton evolving and coming through to the first team, but to also remain competitive in the transfer market.

"We have exciting plans to further enhance our stadium and, most of all, the backing of our supporters who have renewed their season tickets at an unprecedented level."