Johnny Ertl, one of the stand out performers at Middlesbrough on Sunday, is tipping the Blades to hit the winning trial soon.

Ertl, who reverted back into his more a customary midfield berth at The Riverside, felt United shaded the game for long periods and were unfortunate to come away from Teeside empty handed.

He said: "I enjoyed the game and I thought we did really well. We were unlucky to lose because we were the better team, but we have to respond positively against Preston at the weekend.

"It is a long season and we will definitely start getting some points soon. We work hard for each other and there is a tremendous team spirit."