Sheffield United skipper Nick Montgomery conceded it would be "virtually impossible" for the Blades to escape relegation after Saturday's defeat at Preston.
Micky Adams' side slumped to a fourth straight defeat and are now eight points adrift of safety with four games left.
Montgomery said: "It's virtually impossible now but as long as it's still possible we need to stay positive.
"That is what the fans deserve. There will be a lot of rebuilding in the summer."
Source: PA