Sheffield United: This is who will really have the final say on Billy Sharp's new contract

Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s game against Stoke City, which marks his team’s return to action following the international break, Heckingbottom explained Bramall Lane’s hierarchy are prepared to defer to coaching staff when deciding which players set to become free agents will remain at the club next term.

Billy Sharp and Chris Basham, who are among those approaching the end of their present agreements, are still waiting for 12 month extension clauses to be triggered - suggesting some of the details within them are being renegotiated.

Ben Osborn, who could feature alongside new signing Filip Uremovic at the bet365 Stadium providing the Croat’s international clearance is processed, also faces an uncertain future in South Yorkshire.

“It’s me putting this squad together,” Heckingbottom told The Star. “What helps me, though, is clarity of budgets.”

Aged 44, Heckingbottom revealed earlier this year that he had yet to receive details of the financial resources which will be placed at his disposal over the summer - either to try and build a side capable of challenging again for promotion or, with United fifth in the table, survive in the Premier League.

It is unclear if Heckingbottom has now received these projections. But the situation serves to remind that United’s board of directors ultimately decide who stays and who goes, with Heckingbottom instead choosing whose services will definitely not be retained.

Addressing journalists as United finalised their preparations for the meeting with Michael O’Neill’s men, Heckingbottom said “positive” discussions had taken place with some of those invited for talks.

MORE: https://www.thestar.co.uk/sport/football/sheffield-united/sheffield-united-rate-filip-uremovics-chances-of-facing-stoke-city-at-the-bet365-stadium-3635948