Out-of-work manager linked with Sheffield United job says he'd find the right offer "hard to resist"

McInnes was named as a surprise possible contender for the Bramall Lane job vacated by Chris Wilder last month, when the boyhood Blade left United after almost five years at the helm.

McInnes, the former Bristol City boss, left Aberdeen last month by mutual consent after eight years at Pittodrie, which saw him help Aberdeen into Europe and win the 2014 Scottish League Cup.

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“In between Bristol City and Aberdeen I only had about five weeks," he said.

"It’d be nice to get some good time out, reflect and prepare for the next job. That’s what you do when you’re out of work as a manager and it’s important you use the time wisely.

“But at the same time, if an opportunity comes up and it’s exciting enough, it’s hard to resist that. It’s in us to work. Hopefully, I’ll get back into that and get the bit between the teeth again, come back better than ever.

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“I’m really looking forward to the next challenge but I’m also looking forward to a break as well. Obviously it’s a sad time with a heavy heart leaving the club. For me, it was the right time. I was hoping to get to the end of the season and do it that way but I have to respect the club to try and get themselves prepared for next season."

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