Robson assures Quinn over his Blades future

The Sheffield United midfielder, who featured for the Republic of Ireland under-21's against Germany in midweek, has been reassured by manager Bryan Robson that he remains part of his plans despite failing to appear at domestic level this term.

Quinn, younger brother of Alan, was one of the success stories of last season and his energy along the flanks would be a welcome addition to a United side yet to fulfil its potential. Robson, who has been closely monitoring Quinn's progress as he attempts to recover from the ankle problem sustained during pre-season, confirmed: "Stephen is very much a part of things.

"But he's not quite there fitness wise yet which is why he's been not involved.

"Playing for the Republic will have done him good though because he need those minutes under his belt.

"Because he picked up an injury at Alfreton he's not had the chance to join in fully yet but he's definitely in my thinking."

Robson, whose United team entertain his former club West Bromwich Albion tonight, also reassured supporters that James Beattie's arrival at Bramall Lane does not mean Rob Hulse will be deemed surplus to requirements when he completes his rehabilitation from a broken leg.

"We don't want to rush Rob because he's had a very serious injury," Robson continued. "But neither can we afford to stand still and wait because we don't want to fall behind."

Meanwhile, Wrexham are poised to complete the signing of former United trialist Silvio Spann after the Home Office granted the Trinidad & Tobago international a work permit.

Mamadou Seck, the Senegalese defender who continues to train with United's academy after failing to make an impression on the first-team, is reportedly interesting Leeds.

Tony Currie's Football in the Community scheme are holding a special one day soccer school for boys and girls aged 6-11. at Sheffield Works Department, Heeley Bank Road, on Tuesday (9-3.30pm, 10, pay on the day).