Not only for Sheffield United's hopes of returning to the Premiership next season.

But also, manager Kevin Blackwell concedes, his personal mission to ensure Bramall Lane remains a harmonious place to work, rest and play.

Inevitably, given Blackwell's preference for settled tactics and selections, several members of his squad have seen their long-term futures in South Yorkshire thrown into question this week.

Reading, despite United's attempts to suggest otherwise, are exploring the possibility of luring Chris Armstrong to the Madejski Stadium as they consider various options following Nicky Shorey's move to Aston Villa.

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Derek Geary, who reportedly interested Celtic earlier this summer, could emerge as a target for Crystal Palace.

Jon Stead, a scorer for the reserves during their Central League win over Sheffield Wednesday in midweek, has also been mentioned in dispatches at Plymouth Argyle.

But Blackwell, having confirmed that he is under no financial pressure to trim his staff before the transfer window closes on September 1, insists he can keep everyone happy without chopping and changing his starting XI.

"If we keep on winning then it blunts anyone's argument as to why they're not playing," he said.

"They can't come and ask why they're not in the team because the answer's obvious.

"It's a different case when you're not winning."

As David Cotterill's failure to start a league match since his move from Wigan Athletic suggests, reputations count for little under this United regime.

Blackwell's hand has been strengthened further by reassurances from the United board that sporting rather than financial concerns will dictate his recruitment policy over the coming months.

Citing Darius Henderson's arrival from Watford for £2 million, he added: "When Darius became available, I asked if we could do something because I wanted to introduce f competition. The answer from the chairman was 'yes' and that was great to hear because the directors' ambitions match my own."

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