Warnock in Tonge admission

The 20-year-old is making a fantastic name for himself after a number of outstanding displays for the First Division outfit.

Tonge added to his reputation and value, with a tremendous brace against Liverpool in the Worthington Cup on Wednesday evening - which gave The Blades a 2-1 advantage going into the second leg at Anfield later this month.

The former Manchester United youngster is believed to be a transfer target for Reds boss Gerard Houllier, but a number of other clubs are now sitting up and taking an interest in the attack-minded midfielder.

Warnock admits that Tonge can leave Bramall Lane at the end of the season, but only if they fail to make it to The Premiership.

"Nobody wants to buy him now, but then they couldn't afford him at the minute," said Warnock.

"They can have him at the end of the season and Liverpool would be a fantastic club to go to.

"I know that and Michael knows that, and I think he would love to go there, but there's plenty of time for that yet."

The Blades boss added that if they do manage to gain promotion, then Tonge will remain at the club. 

"I know I will lose him one day, unless we go up this season and then we'll never lose him in a million years, not while I am here," he opined.

Wednesday's man of the match said afterwards: "It's up to the clubs."