Kevin Blackwell, the club's no-nonsense manager, is plotting a direct course to the Premier League rather than the more convoluted route Stead's versatile talents can offer.

At first glance, sanctioning the 25-year-old's transfer to Ipswich appears to be a potentially dangerous gamble.

But Blackwell, who also allowed Chris Armstrong to join Reading during the transfer window, insists he is not in the business of offering a helping hand to United's Championship rivals, let alone those expected to challenge for a top-six berth.

So the Stead business serves to confirm the confidence he enjoys in the attacking options already at his disposal.

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James Beattie's return to fitness - despite coaching staff's claims that no single player is guaranteed selection - means the most pressing dilemma facing Blackwell at present is identifying the best foil for his charismatic marksman.

Darius Henderson, Billy Sharp and Danny Webber have all staked strong claims.

But, clearly, Stead, whose loan deal at Portman Road is expected to be made permanent in January, is clearly not part of the equation.

Blackwell, whose record since taking charge two-thirds of the way through last season ensures his judgement can not be questioned, prefers his centre-forwards to possess a ruthless, single-minded streak.

Boasting an average of a goal every four games, Stead can be proud of his contribution in United colours.

But, with his tendency to ghost into dangerous positions, he offers a threat more subtle than that which is perhaps required at Bramall Lane.

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Ipswich boss Jim Magilton said: "Jon will add some extra qualities to our squad.

"He has played and scored goals at Premier League level and I'm sure if we give him the ammunition he will score goals for us."

Blackwell has, quite rightly, been loathe to elaborate on his selection plans, but Henderson appears to be at the front of the queue.

Sharp enhanced his reputation as a 'fox in the box' by plundering a hat-trick against Queens Park Rangers last month while Webber's electric
pace and incisive running guarantees opposition defenders a headache.

There are no givens, as Ugo Ehiogu's selection ahead of captain Chris Morgan against Cardiff City highlight.

But by pairing Henderson and Beattie during the closing stages of last Saturday's delicatelypoised encounter with Cardiff, Blackwell could have inadvertantly provided an insight into his thinking.

Whether Henderson, a £2 million capture from Watford, does eventually see off the challenges of Webber and Sharp remains unknown.

Blackwell, though, certainly appreciates his power, willingness to soak up punishment and, perhaps most importantly, his selflessness.

"Darius has been immense as far as I'm concerned," Blackwell commented after the goalless draw.

"We certainly don't get bossed around like probably we did up there at some times last season.

"By doing what he does it means we can play a high line and apply a lot of pressure on the opposition."

United supporters will watch with interest.


Don't miss this Saturday's Green'Un for a colour poster of James Beattie
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