United will take a close look at three triallists when the players start to return to training at the Academy next week.

Kevin Blackwell has admitted that he is determined to strengthen his defensive options after improving competition in midfield and attack, and he is looking both at home and abroad to bring in the right players:

"The three who will be joining us next week are all from Europe; a Spanish defender, a right-back from Charleroi (Belgium) and, in addition, a left-back."

The Blades return to training will be staggered as they undertake physical testing in groups before the real preparation work starts on Thursday.