But the Sheffield United midfielder admits he is unlikely to realise his second wish of a weekend he labelled last night as the most dramatic of his career.

Having learned that Kevin Blackwell's appointment as manager will be ratified at the press conference tomorrow morning, Tonge, one of several influential voices within Bramall Lane's first team squad to call for his short-term contract to be replaced with a permanent deal, wants to celebrate by guiding United to a top six finish.

Victory at St Mary's would, if results elsewhere go their way, see Blackwell's side qualify for the end of season play-offs.

The massed ranks of the red and white army set to descend upon Southampton this weekend will doubtless be tuned into their radios and scanning their mobile phones in an attempt to keep up with events at Bloomfield Road, Selhurst Park, Portman Road and Molineux but Tonge said: "From our perspective it's better to concentrate totally on the game.

"It's remarkable how many matches at this stage still have something riding on them at both ends of the table.

"We know what we've got to do and we can't allow ourselves to be distracted from that.

"But the fans are going to have a big impact.

"Against Bristol City last Saturday it was pretty obvious what was going on at the other grounds because we kept hearing the cheers during the game.

"I'm sure there are going to be lots of twists and turns and that those will all be relayed through the crowd."

With Southampton knowing that defeat would definitely condemn them to relegation, the luxury of ignoring what is going on across the rest of the country is not a luxury United's opponents will enjoy.

Echoing Tonge's sentiments Blackwell, who again confirmed he will be without injured trio James Beattie, Ugo Ehiogu and Lee Martin, has resisted the temptation to place spies at the crucial fixtures.

"I won't have people phoning scores through," he said. "All I'm interested in is what we do plain and simple. I'm not interested in anything else at all."

Nigel Pearson, however, is duty bound to keep abreast of events as they could have a significant impact upon his tactical decision making during what is certain to be a nerve-wracking afternoon.

So attempting to ignore them is likely to be a fruitless exercise.
One glance across the touchline at his counterpart's demeanour will tell Blackwell and Tonge all they need to know.

United must embrace the occasion rather than fear it.

A record of eight wins from their last ten outings suggests they are physically and mentally equipped to do so.

The experience of Gary Speed, United's veteran midfielder, should prove a particularly valuable commodity if things get tense.

Tonge said: "Gary's been great.

"He reminds me of Macca in many ways, especially the role he plays in the team.

"He's brought the best out of the players around him.

"Having Gary has ensured the spine of our team is especially strong."

What do you think? Post your comments below.

READ MORE

Sheffield Eagles mark 10th anniversary of historic Wembley win: CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO REPORT

OWLS TALK - Paul Thompson discusses Wednesday's survival chances ahead of their last match of the season: CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO REPORT

BLADES TALK - James Shield discusses the challenge faced by one Blades player who will be lining up against them on Sunday: CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO REPORT

Leon's a lion for Owls fans - SEZ LES

Football headlines.
More Blades.
More Owls.
More Spireites.
More Rovers.
More Reds.
More Millers.
More Ice Hockey.
More rugby.
More boxing.
Sports columnists.
All sport categories.