Will former Leeds chief Paul Heckingbottom change his approach after being named on shortlist for Sheffield United job?

United chief executive Stephen Bettis made the revelation in midweek, adding that Heckingbottom has impressed the Bramall Lane hierarchy after assuming temporary control following Wilder’s departure last month.

The news effectively turns the last five games of United’s relegation season into an extended audition for Heckingbottom, who stepped up from his role as United’s U23 role last month.

But the former Leeds and Barnsley manager insisted that he isn’t seeing it that way, despite admitting he thinks it is “flattering” to be named on the shortlist.

“It’s just business as usual for me, with how we’re approaching the games,” Heckingbottom said, ahead of his side’s trip to Spurs this weekend.

“Nothing is going to change, I’m going to give my all for the players and the staff and try to get the feeling different before they break up. Next season will be an important season and so anything I can do to help out, I will do it.

“My role is focusing on the job now, we were clear and open when I stepped up in that I’d do it for as long as needed and I’d give my all, but I was brought in to work with the 23s. Nothing has changed in my eyes, one little bit.”

Heckingbottom picked up his first win as Blades boss last weekend, when United beat Brighton and Hove Albion at Bramall Lane.

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