Sharpe told The Star he believes both United and Wednesday can improve on their respective disappointments last season.

"For a club of their size Sheffield United's aim has got to be promotion," he said.

"They were a bit unlucky last season, having a good run but just falling short, but I think they'll be up there this year. Automatic promotion will surely be the target, and at the very least a Play-Off place".

The 37-year-old former winger, who played 193 times for Manchester United, will appear for England against Germany in a 'Legends' Star-promoted exhibition match, scheduled for August 7 at Bramall Lane. Sharpe revealed that one of his fondest footballing memories occurred at the home of The Blades, when Eric Cantona chipped Manchester United's first goal against United in the third round of the FA Cup, in 1995. "It was a great goal," he remembers.

"I've been lucky in my career to play with players capable of doing that, such as Cantona, Ryan Giggs, Bryan Robson.

"It just didn't quite happen for Robbo at Bramall Lane, which is a shame because I know he had some great ideas and was very committed. But that's the way it works out sometimes."

Sharpe also told of 'numerous good battles' with Sheffield Wednesday over the years, including one at Old Trafford in December 1995.

Wednesday had gone ahead through Guy Whittingham in the 76th minute, only for Cantona to equalise with his second goal six minutes from time.

The point proved decisive, as Manchester United won the Premier League for the third time - but took only two points from The Owls after they were held to a goalless draw at Hillsborough earlier in their double-winning season.

The Owls finished 15th, two points off the relegation zone.

"That was such a great match," Sharpe said "but generally we had a good record against Wednesday."

As for their hopes in the increasingly-competitive Coca-Cola Championship, Sharpe believes that the Owls have the capability to build on last season's 16th-placed finish - with the help of some behind the scenes initiative.

"A top six place could be achievable for Wednesday this season, provided they achieve some stability.

"The club needs a chairman to match its own ambitions - if they can get that, then there's no reason that they can't do well."

England v Germany Legends tickets are £10 adults (over-16); children, under-16, £1; £5 for OAPs; £25 family, includes two adults and two OAPS - £1.50 booking fee applies. Available now in person from The Star Shop, York Street, Sheffield, 9am to 5pm weekdays, 9am to 12 noon Saturdays, or call 0114 252 1299.

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