Adkins to decide Blades players' futures as his own fate hangs in balance

Adkins’ position is under growing pressure following United’s lowest table finish since 1983, which was sealed after last weekend’s 2-0 defeat at home to Scunthorpe United.

Sections of United’s home support chanted for Adkins to be removed from his posts, and chants aimed at the Bramall Lane board could be heard as goals from Tom Hopper and Paddy Madden ensured a disappointing campaign ended on a predictably disappointing note.

Adkins will this week begin a series of one-to-one meetings with United’s playing staff, where the futures of out-of-contract players including Ryan Flynn and skipper Jay McEveley will be decided.

But the former Scunthorpe and Southampton chief faces an uncertain summer himself with Kevin McCabe and Prince Abdullah bin Musa’ed bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, United’s co-owners, understood to be divided on the issue.

“We haven’t achieved what we set out to achieve,” Adkins admitted.

“Either in this game, or throughout the entire season.

“It’s a shame that we couldn’t see the season on a high, and we have a lot of work to do to ensure we come back stronger and better next season.”

Blades: P38