Adkins' praise for Wallace as Blades youngster pens new deal at Sheffield United

The versatile youngster, signed from Ilkeston FC by Adkins' predecessor, Nigel Clough, a year ago, has impressed the United coaching team this season with a series of competent and whole-hearted displays at left-back.

Wallace, formerly of Nottingham Forest, only penned a contract extension in the summer and his new deal will see him now remain at Bramall Lane until the summer of 2018.

"We are very pleased to have extended Kieran's contract and we hope it will give him more stability moving forward," Adkins said.

"Since the day we joined, his attitude, behaviour and commitment has been first class and he is improving as a player all the time.

"He has certainly done very well this season and we believe he is in an environment with the right people round him to develop further.

"Now he has more security we are confident he will continue on that upward development curve."