Sheffield United: Nigel not planning on going anywhere other than the Lane

Nigel Adkins on the touchline against Rochdale last weekend

But Adkins, whose team are 10th in the League One table ahead of tonight’s game against Burton Albion, acknowledged there are still hurdles to overcome before the South Yorkshire club can fulfil its potential.

“I feel for the football club,” he said. “I’m not looking to jump elsewhere. I want to help this club get it right.

“At this moment in time, it’s a big challenge but I’m enjoying getting my teeth into it. There are lots of things to do, let’s not hide away from that fact.

“But I’ve always been very consistent in my manner and in handling the situation. That’s what I do and I know the strategies which need to be put in place.

“We aren’t going to hide away from anything. I never have and I never will.

“But we also understand the problems which arise at times like this, at this stage of the season, and how to cope with them. That’s the course and distance aspect.”

Adkins became the fifth person to take charge of United since their relegation from the second-tier in 2011 when he was appointed in June and, speaking earlier this month, insisted a period of stability is required irrespective of whether they gain promotion via the play-offs.

Adkins’ previous employers Reading were beset by off-the-pitch wrangling during his eventful spell at the Madejski Stadium but, prior to arriving in Berkshire, he achieved great success with both Scunthorpe and Southampton.

“The experiences I’ve had, I can give back to others,” Adkins continued. “The fact this is a challenge makes it even more exciting. It’s a challenge I want to be involved in because you are put to the test.

“We do lots of analysis and it’s all about finding solutions. How can I deal with this? How can I lead everybody through and find those solutions?”

“You’ve got to keep your eye on the prize at all times,” he added. “It’s like climbing a mountain. As you go up, you might have to take different pathways but you’ve always got to stay focused on the summit otherwise you’ll never get there.”