The Sheffield United manager, who yesterday sanctioned Chris Armstrong's move to Championship rivals Reading, confirmed the deal, which sources at the Madejski Stadium estimate could be worth up to £700,000, might not be his only piece of business before September 1.

Explaining his reasons for allowing Armstrong to leave, Blackwell, whose side travel to Huddersfield in the Carling Cup second round this evening, said: "I've got three or four who can fill his role.

"I didn't really want Chris to leave but, because of our options there, I knew I wasn't going to be left naked in a desperate situation.

"His chances, in the short to medium term at least, are going to be limited here so it's best for both parties.

"I really hope the kid does well and everyone here wishes him all the best. We'd like to thank him for his efforts."

Blackwell added: "Reading's offer came out of the blue and that's the way I think it will work between now and the cut-off date.

"Be it people going or people coming in, whatever happens will probably be a surprise."

United spent just £100,000 acquiring Armstrong from Oldham in July 2003 and could use the money to fill Bramall Lane's long-standing vacancy for a creative midfielder if a suitable candidate can be found.

But their immediate priority is preparing for the trip to the Galpharm Stadium where they hope to avenge their only defeat of the summer friendly programme.

Blackwell's starting eleven is shrouded in secrecy - "I don't want anyone to know" - but Ian Bennett and Jon Stead look certain to start while David Carney could make a susprise appearance after returning from international duty with Australia.

Chris Morgan and Sun Jihai, who has recovered from the knee injury he suffered at Blackpool last weekend, are also in contention.

"The team I put out is going to be strong," Blackwell vowed. "In fact it would be strong enough to face Cardiff (on Saturday).

"We've got a good squad and I've got to give lads games to make sure that, if they have to come in, then they're right on the ball. If we get injuries or suspensions then people have got to be ready.

"I want to win every game."

n Blades' midfielder Ben Starosta has extended his loan deal at Aldershot until the end of August.

The 21-year-old, who has been at the League Two outfit since the start of the season with a view to securing a permanent deal, has featured four times in the right-back spot for the Shots.

But Town manager Gary Waddock is yet to make a final decision over the defender.

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