LEE MARTIN is expected to ask Sir Alex Ferguson to let him join Sheffield United unless he receives assurances about his first-team prospects at Old Trafford.
Martin, who returned to Manchester United following an injury plagued spell on loan at Bramall Lane last season, used his stay with the Blades to express fears that his career could stagnate if he remained at Old Trafford.
Perhaps significantly, Kevin Blackwell has refused to be drawn on quotes attributed to Martin revealing that the 21-year-old would relish the opportunity of discussing a permanent move to his former club.
"No comment," Blackwell responded when questioned on the subject.
But Martin's decision to speak openly about his wish to hold talks with United is telling; particularly his lavish praise of Blackwell's coaching skills.
Despite being signed by Blackwell's predecessor Bryan Robson, the two men quickly established a close understanding.
Talking-up United's promotion credentials, Martin said: "They definitely have a great chance. They have one of the strongest squads in the Championship and the gaffer is a really talented manager. It's a massive club which belongs in the Premiership."
Blackwell is believed to have approached Old Trafford officials only to be thwarted by Ferguson's desire to monitor Martin's progress before the start of the 2008/09 campaign.
Former Celtic midfielder Ross Wallace is another possibility after being deemed surplus to requirements at Sunderland.
What do you think? Post your comments below. READ MORE Football headlinesMore BladesMore OwlsMore SpireitesMore RoversMore RedsMore MillersMore Ice HockeyMore rugby leagueMore rugby unionMore boxingSports columnistsAll sport categoriesThe full article contains 277 words and appears in Sheffield Star newspaper.
