Keith Edwards has applauded the news that negotiations are ongoing for the return of Kyle Walker next season - despite him and Kyle Naughton joining Tottenham Hotspur in a double deal.

The ex Blades sharpshooter was pleased to hear that although Naughton has already joined Spurs immediately, it is believed that England U19 International Walker will be loaned straight back for the 2009/10 campaign, subject to the appropriate permission of the leagues, which will ease Kevin Blackwell's team selection.

Having already covered the early season loss through injury of Gary Naysmith by the acquisition of former Blackburn prospect Andy Taylor, the United boss will now have the opportunity to consider taking Tottenham players on loan as part of the double deal:

"Having Walker available is a very important part of our strategy and it is exciting to have the chance to talk with Tottenham and judge whether any other of their players might fit into our squad.

"If we think that someone could help us we could take them on a short term loan throughout August and, if required, extend it to a season long arrangement after that."

Blackwell, chasing further recruitment having already lodged bids for several players, believes that the double sale will allow him more scope to further strengthen his squad:

"Our Academy is proving its worth in producing assets for Sheffield United and, in these current uncertain financial times, we are pursuing a policy we believe will enable me to try and build a competitive team whilst developing the Club's long term future."

Part of the proceeds from the deal will be utilised to strengthen the Club; to finance its major transfer target, fund player wage bills and to further invest in youth development which has produced obvious benefits.

Academy products Naughton and Walker only made the breakthrough last season and Walker, particularly, played just a handful of games. All parties will benefit from him having the chance to gain more regular experience in the Championship.

"This last year has been absolutely unbelievable for me and it is incredible that my career has taken off to such an extent," said Naughton, adding:

"If things had gone differently for us at Wembley then I am sure that I would still be at the lane but this is a chance I now feel I should take.

"Everyone knows that I will always remain a Blade at heart and I can't thank United fans and the staff there enough for what they have done for me.

"Nothing will please me more than to see United reach the Premiership sooner rather than later."

Blades legend Keith Edwards says that the decision to sell the pair was in the best interests of United and the players:

"It is always difficult to see favourite players leave but everyone knew that there was considerable interest from the Premiership in them.

"Whilst the Club would have been reluctant to lose them it became clear that it could not stand in the way of the players competing in the top flight.

"Having the opportunity to bring Walker back is a great boost and, for the manager, changing things around is about strengthening both the Club and the playing squad as a whole.

"I know that Blackie is working on several potential incoming moves and feel certain that he will bring people in that will give United a great chance.

"I hope that our supporters welcome all the new signings and give them great support - whether they come through the ranks or are brought in from elsewhere."