Paul Heckingbottom issues key injury update over Sheffield United star Sander Berge

Berge, formerly United’s record signing, has not appeared since December, when he damaged a muscle in defeat to Manchester United.

He recently returned to full training, albeit not in time to return and help in United’s bid to avoid relegation, and Heckingbottom expects to have him available before the end of the season.

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“We’ll be similar to the last game in terms of personnel available,” Heckingbottom confirmed ahead of this weekend’s Bramall Lane clash against Brighton.

“We’ve got Robbo [Jack Robinson] back training which is great. He’s been out for a while, and Sander is getting more training games. They’re probably the only changes.”

When asked if he thought Berge would play again this season, Heckingbottom replied: “I do, yeah.

“When that is, it’s led by him and the medical team but I’ve been pleased with him and he’s making strides every day. We’re just pushing him but he’s been working hard to make the necessary improvements.

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“We know he’s behind in terms of game time on the pitch but he’s working towards that and I’m confident we’ll get him out there.”

United’s relegation to the Championship was confirmed at the weekend, when they lost 1-0 away at Wolves, but Heckingbottom has refused to accept that United have nothing to play for in their six remaining games.

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