Sheffield United: Blades must wait for targets

Adkins had hoped to make “a couple” of signings ahead of Saturday’s game against Wigan Athletic but must now wait until the emergency loan window reopens later this month to pursue his leading targets.

Although Adkins had vowed not to make any vanity purchases in order to satisfy the clamour for new additions among United supporters, yesterday’s lack of activity will nevertheless disappoint the former Southampton chief and his staff.

“It’s important to remember that, despite the fact we’d like to bring a couple in, we already have some very good players here,” Adkins said. “Even though you are always looking to see where you can improve, you mustn’t lose sight of what you’ve already got. Because those are always the most important players. Those are the ones your focus must be on.”

United had spent a month attempting to secure Dan Burn’s release from Fulham but, after intially being encouraged by the Londoners’ decision to bolster their own defensive options, were unable to push through a deal. It remains to be seen whether Adkins will try and resurrect those negotiations next week.