Two of United's summer recruits have spoken about the rigours of pre-season training as the Blades returned to their Shirecliffe base on Thursday.

Leon Britton and Daniel Bogdanovic got their first taste of United's renowned training programme, but the duo know the importance of getting their bodies ready for the challenge that lies ahead:

"It is hard but something that we need, and the harder it is now makes it easier during the season, said Bogdanovic who has experienced several different regimes during his career that has spanned Europe.

"Every club has different methods in pre-season, each manager and fitness coach has their own ideas, but if players do it properly they will benefit regardless.

"I have noticed how fit a Sheffield United team is when I have played against them - they are a physical outfit that never stops running.

"That is a big plus for me because I know what I can do on the pitch if I am fit, so I am focusing on getting myself right and showing people what I can do."

Britton is another player who knows what has to be achieved prior to the season getting underway, and has noticed how the emphasis has evolved in recent years with players expected to keep in shape before coming back:

"Obviously, the first day is hard work but that is what you expect. It doesn't get any easier although you do know what is coming and you have to prepare yourself during the summer.

"If you do your running on your own it makes it that bit easier when you join up with the rest of the lads who are all professionals themselves.

"Football has changed a lot over the years, a good pre-season is vital because it provides the base to work off for the whole season."