The Blades squad had Friday off after three intensive days' training but have been warned that the International break must not interrupt their rhythm.

Whilst Ched Evans, Jamie Ward and David Cotterill are likely to feature for their countries over the next few days, the rest can enjoy a three day weekend as the top divisions have no fixtures.

Unbeaten in the Championship so far, United's next fixture is at Derby on Saturday week and assistant boss Sam Ellis insists that the team must resume at Pride Park with the same intensity that has been exhibited so far:

"We have reminded the lads that last year after the International break we came back badly so they have been warned about that."