Sheffield United have made a key step off the field with the news that Chief Executive Steven Bettis is to return to South Yorkshire as a link man between Chris Wilder and the boardroom.

The appointment, which was acknowledged by Wilder in an interview with the Sheffield Star following his side's 5-1 win over Stocksbridge Park Steels last night, is a key piece of business by the club, and gives Wilder the backing at boardroom level following some turmoil towards the end of last season.

Bettis is, according to Alan Biggs, someone who Wilder completely trusts and will provide a vital link between Wilder and the board in terms of transfers.

The Blades are hoping to make big inroads into the market this summer following the sale of David Brooks to Bournemouth, as well as the releasing and loaning out of several members of the first team squad from last season, with the likes of James Hanson, Ched Evans, and Nathan Thomas all moving on.

Wilder will be hoping to add quality to the ranks this summer after an excellent first year back in the Championship last term saw the club just miss out on the playoff places.

Blades fans, what do you make of this? Good news for the club? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!