VIDEO: Blades boss Adkins praises team spirit and character after late win over Colchester

Billy Sharp was on target again for his sixth successive league goal to put Adkins' side ahead but United were pegged back by Tom Eastman's goal and it took a late winner from David Edgar to seal all three points for the visitors.

It's been an arduous week for Sheffield United, who battled bravely last Saturday in losing 1-0 to Manchester United at Old Trafford in the FA Cup. They then came from three goals down to draw 3-3 at Wigan Athletic in midweek and after a third away trip in the space of seven days, Adkins recognised the amount of energy that had been taken up.

He told BBC Radio Sheffield: "Let's take the positives after what has been three games away from home in a week and thanks to the supporters for travelling and backing the players again.

FULL REPORT - Colchester 1 Sheffield United 2

"A lot of energy was expended at Wigan where we finished the game very strongly and we've gone and scored a winning goal late here again."

Adkins added: "Someone said we are third or fourth highest goalscorers in the division. We have conceded too many; we know we are going to score but we have got a team that has spirit and fight and determination and character and I think that's so important and that has been demonstrated all the way through December and to today."