Sheffield United Football Club News

• Nickname:The blades
• Founded:1889
• Manager:Danny Wilson

• Ground:Bramall Lane
• Capacity:30,945

Blades confirm Warnock exit

16 May 2007 - 12:45:11

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Neil Warnock believes now is the right time to leave Sheffield United after confirming his departure after more than seven years at Bramall Lane.

The Blades also intend to continue to fight the decision to fine and not to deduct any points from West Ham United, with chairman Kevin McCabe insisting that the ongoing saga had a bearing on Warnock's decision to leave.

"Kevin McCabe and I sat down together on Monday because I had come to the decision that it was time for me to leave Sheffield United," confirmed Warnock.

"I have been at the club for seven-and-a-half years and if anyone could turn back the clock to where we were then and see how we are now, it is fair to say that we have come a long, long way.

"I also believe that it is the right time for me to go, and I'm sure a new manager will have the 100 per cent support of United fans which will be needed next season if at any time the team goes through a bad spell.

"But I honestly feel the squad left here is the best equipped of the three relegated teams to mount a bid for an immediate return to the Premiership.

"I feel proud of what I have achieved with the club, and of becoming third longest serving Blades manager, but this decision is best for both Sheffield United and myself.

"This past season has only whetted my appetite to achieve success in the game. I am still enthusiastic about managing, am experienced enough to make a fresh start elsewhere and I will relish an opportunity to continue managing for a few more years."

McCabe added: "This is a mutual decision in some respects prompted by the events of the last few days.

"Both Neil and I believe it is for the good of the club. Neil departs with all our best wishes.

"Neil is a Blade through and through and what has happened off the pitch has hurt him.

"The powers that be should take that into account. We've achieved so much in the seven years he's been with the club. We are a Premiership club, the whole infrastructure of the club is geared to the Premiership."