Blades expect Beattie stay

McCabe warns off Premier League clubs

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 6th May 2008

James Beattie Sheffield United

Beattie: Going nowhere

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Sheffield United chairman Kevin McCabe is confident James Beattie will still be at the club next season.

Beattie has had a superb first season at Bramall Lane following his move from Everton last summer, scoring 22 goals in the Championship.

He has been linked with a return to the Premier League and Bolton, Portsmouth and Aston Villa are all reportedly interested.

However, McCabe has warned the top flight clubs that it will be extremely difficult to prise Beattie away from his long-term deal.

The 30-year-old striker recently stated that he was happy with the Blades and McCabe is desperate for him to stay.

Happy as Larry

"We don't want to lose James and nor do we expect him to leave," McCabe told the Daily Express.

"He's as happy as Larry here and it's great to have him.

"Anyone who has spoken to James or has seen him play will tell you that.

"James is subject to a long-term contract and that says everything.

"I accept that what happens in football is not always down to the clubs any more, but we love having him, he has done exceptionally well and we will fight to keep him."