Blackwell handed Blades deal

Blackwell: New Blades deal

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Kevin Blackwell has been formally confirmed as the new manager of Sheffield United.

Blackwell was appointed on a short-term deal in February when he replaced Bryan Robson at Bramall Lane.

The former Leeds and Luton boss guided The Blades to the brink of the play-offs and has now been rewarded for his efforts with a three-year deal.

"I'm very proud to take up this appointment," said Blackwell.

"The club is very close to my heart and I'm delighted to be given the opportunity of delivering the ambitions of the chairman, the board and the wonderful fans of this club.

"I believe we are a top-10 club in the making. With hard work, discipline, the will to succeed, determination, responsibility, commitment to excellence and pride we can get there."

Delight

PLC chairman Kevin McCabe was delighted to announce Blackwell's appointment.

"Kevin perfectly fits the bill as our manager," said McCabe.

"We have reviewed and enjoyed long discussions about how our football division should operate.

"He is experienced but at the same time brings fresh and innovative ideas particularly recognising what we are trying to achieve with our overseas sister clubs in China, Hungary and Australia as well as our partnership with Sao Paulo in Brazil.

"Kevin and I will continue to talk and plan over the coming weeks.

"We have many aims and aspirations both here and abroad, so we will continue to recruit football executives to build the football division who can assist Kevin.

"The Premier League is our aim through the development of a quality squad of 22-24 players made up from the nucleus of the current group but improved with new signings, academy players and links with our sister clubs."

Blackwell's assistant Sam Ellis is also remaining with the club.