Sheffield United failed to close the gap on Millwall and the top six this weekend after they were held to a 1-1 draw against the Lions on Saturday.

In what was a fast and frenetic game, the Blades took the lead late on through Leon Clarke but were immediately pegged back.

However, they are still just three points away from the play-offs in what has been a fine first season back in the second tier. And, that shouldn't be overlooked irrespective of what happens in the coming weeks.

Chris Wilder has done a superb job at Bramall Lane and will be looking to go again next season if they remain a Championship club and will have identified areas that need improving.

Here we look at three players that could be big players for Sheffield United if they were to join...

Wilder has tried to solve the issues his midfield has had since Paul Coutts injury and Lee Evans looks as though he could be a major player for the Blades.

However, even with Coutts back next season too, they will want another midfielder and Pearson has the all-round game that Wilder's men need.

He is strong in the tackle, aggressive but can also play and is a very capable player at this level. It would be a big ask to convince him to join but if they make a lot of money on David Brooks then they could be in a position to spend.

Similarly, it would be tough to bring Peterborough's Marriott to Bramall Lane purely because of the interest in him but he's a very good player.

Whilst Billy Sharp and Leon Clarke have scored goals, there's still a feeling that the Blades haven't always been ruthless enough.

Marriott would change that with his good movement and coolness in front of goal.

His Posh teammate Maddison is another who is destine for bigger and better things after another big season for the club.

Whilst he may struggle to fit in to the 3-5-2 formation that Wilder prefers, unless playing off the striker, the Blades are desperately in need for someone like him.

They have few who can unlock a defence or beat a player but Maddison boasts that unpredictability and magic that can influence tight games.