Sheffield United's chief executive Trevor Birch has commented on defender Gary Naysmith's decision to reject fresh terms and join Huddersfield Town from 1st July.

The 31-year-old, who came to the club from Premier League Everton, turned down a Championship level contract offer from the Blades, opting to become manager Lee Clark's major signing of the summer.

The Blades have now switched their attentions to other options - with a decision being close on a replacement for Naysmith, who only played two games last season after being sidelined for more than a year by a serious knee injury.

"Following Gary's return to playing after his long term absence through injury, we made a concerted effort to keep him which included the offer of a new contract," said Mr Birch.

"In the current climate, in particular, there's always a limit on how far clubs can go to satisfy player demands. Acknowledging the level of his previous contract and the fact he had been out of the game for a long period due to injury, the player understood that we would be offering changed but still good terms. An offer was tabled and we made it clear that we would like to see him stay.

"Gary wanted to weigh things up. He was in a position where he could talk to other clubs as he considered his future following such a disruptive injury. Huddersfield have, in effect, made him their significant signing for the new season. We wish him all the very best for the future," added Mr Birch.

Naysmith, who joined United in 2007, made 79 appearances. He has played 46 times for Scotland.