BLADES STARS PLAYING FOR THEIR FUTURE

PAUL HECKINGBOTTOM has warned Sheffield United’s players that they are on trial for their futures.

The Blades caretaker boss says the next permanent manager will already be watching their performances and making judgements on them. And he reckons his players can prove they can still shine in the Premier League – even though relegation could be confirmed this weekend.

Rock-bottom United (above, Alexandre Lacazette adding to their woes in Arsenal’s 3-0 win) are likely to have their drop to the Championship confirmed unless they win at Wolves to postpone the inevitable. Heckingbottom (below) said: “Yes, 100 per cent they are playing for their futures.

“The next manager will have been watching these games and they will make their minds up on players. You are always being judged, in, or out, of contract.

“It could be the last chance for some to shine in the Premier League. Others might like more of it.

“But there has been a sense of inevitability about this moment. It has been a noose round our neck dragging us down and we have to live with it and perform.

“It has been out of our hands for a long time. Knowing that doesn’t help performances or getting into the right habits that are needed to win.”

Striker Oli McBurnie (broken foot) joins Billy Sharp on the sidelines for the remainder of the season.

Heckingbottom added: “We can’t feel sorry for ourselves. But can we take positives and be in a position to hit the ground running next season?”