The Championship club's chairman was responding to claims that Trevor Birch's appointment as chief executive marked the first phase of a plan to offload his shareholding.

While McCabe admitted that Birch's "contacts book" should enable United to open doors towards new investment which had previously been declared off limits, he insisted the former Chelsea supremo's arrival does not mark the end of his family's involvement.

"I remain as determined to get us back to where I believe we should be as ever," he said.

"But what people have got to realise is that I'm not getting any younger and that my work related to here and also my personal business affairs are taking up an increasing amount of time.

"Because of that, I want to be a non-executive type of chairman.

"And there also comes a time when you can't just rely on one person's vision.

"We are bringing in someone who is internationally renowned, has excellent business qualifications and also has a wealth of experience.

"You only have to look at Trevor's background to see the attraction."

Although Birch's presence does not change the strength of the relationship between United and McCabe, it will alter its dynamics.

Birch, who officially starts work next month, will be responsible for the day-to-day running of Bramall Lane's affairs as well as liasing with manager Kevin Blackwell.

However McCabe, having travelled to Singapore immediately after Saturday's victory over Peterborough, must still be consulted on major issues.

"Trevor comes with the authority and has the knowledge and ability to take care of most things that crop up," McCabe added.

"But I would imagine that any chief executive would talk with his chairman on certain things."

McCabe refused to divulge the exact nature of his trip to the Far East, but The Star understands part of his brief includes exploring potential revenue streams.

Blackwell is known to be interested in entering the loan market before Thursday's deadline.

McCabe said: "I'll be doing the things a chairman should be concentrating on like helping trying to inspire and leading people. The nuts and bolts I'm happy to pass on."

United return to action at Bristol City this weekend.




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