Kevin Blackwell has tasked new Academy manager John Pemberton with ensuring that the Blades take on the best young talent available.

Former Blade Pemberton's appointment was confirmed earlier this week and he will take up his post on 3 May, with the United manager asserting that it will be an even more competitive market:

"The financial sphere being what it is and football finances being squeezed, all clubs will be looking more at developing their own players because there isn't the money to splash around on fees any more.

"That is why I was delighted to see Matty Lowton come through, and I hope he will have a game before the season is over.

"We are probably just about on track in terms of producing players, but we don't have one in the team at moment.

"Part of John's role will be to ensure that we are more aggressive in terms of recruitment at junior player level, and I felt when I came back that it was an area we should concentrate on because it will always be the key for how successful you are.

"Kevin Fogg, Mark Smith and their coaches have done a great job but a new face will bring a new view, and John had great experience at Forest before going to Palace in the junior set-up.

"Being a former player here will be a help because he will understand what this club is all about. Even Gary Speed, when he first came, wasn't aware of just how much passion and intensity this club generates,

"Fans have an affinity for youngsters brought through - they are the heart and soul of the Club."