United manager Kevin Blackwell officially launched the Blades pre-season tour of Malta by placing his handprint in cement at St Julian's Bay Street shopping mall.

The precinct is home to the island's very own Hollywood Boulevard-style walk of fame.

Immediately after etching his name in the island's history, Blackwell was escorted to the five star InterContinental hotel to greet a number of United fans that had made the journey across to the heart of the Mediterranean.

Providing plenty of encouragement on how United's preparations were going ahead of the new season, the large contingency of Blades fans were given the low down during the Q&A appearance from Blackwell.

The intimate affair saw Blackwell joined by club Chairman Kevin McCabe, United's CEO Trevor Birch and new signing Daniel Bogdanovic. The panel answered questions on a variety of subjects that ranged from United's new signings, pre-season preparations and the Blades ultimate goal of returning back to the Premiership.

"Today has been a real eye opener," said 22 year-old Blades fan Michael Hart. "We all appreciated getting an insight into the manager's plans ahead of the season. It was also fascinating to get the thoughts of Kevin McCabe, Trevor Birch and Bogdanovic. It really feels the club is moving in the right direction and everyone has good ideas about where the club is going.

"We have made so many friends with the Maltese. It is a fantastic island and everyone is so friendly. It's been the perfect start to our trip!"

Blackwell said: "It has certainly has been an eventful first day in Malta. The welcome we have received from the Maltese people has once again been overwhelming.

"Meeting up with some of our fans that travelled across to Malta was a great way to start our visit. However, it's important that we keep focussed on completing a crucial stage of our pre-season preparations and the hard work starts now."