Sheffield United's David McGoldrick appears to have taken a huge step forward in his battle against injury

Despite failing to appear in any of United’s three pre-season matches so far, Stephen Kenny selected McGoldrick in his squad for the meetings with Bulgaria and Markku Kanerva’s side - before announcing he would miss the trip to Sofia through injury.

But speaking ahead of tomorrow’s visit to Preston North End, the final match of United’s warm-up programme ahead of September 14th’s clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers, Chris Wilder confirmed McGoldrick is making progress in his recovery.

“Didzy has been continuing to work with us this week,” the United manager told The Star. “They (Ireland) play on Sunday, I believe, so I think he’ll be involved in that.”

McGoldrick, aged 32, has emerged as a key figure at Bramall Lane since arriving on a free transfer two years ago - with Wilder acknowledging his ability to weave together attacks overrides his disappointing record in front of goal.

United’s John Egan and Enda Stevens are both expected to feature inside the Vasil Levski National Stadium, while Callum Robinson could also take part after being summoned to Ireland’s training camp.

All four players were absent when United continued their preparations for the 2020/21 campaign with a 2-0 win over Derby County at Pride Park on Tuesday evening. Ben Osborn and Billy Sharp were both on target.

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