Despite enjoying a very good first season back in the Championship it looks like it will end in frustration for Sheffield United after they were unable to make the play-offs.

The Blades were competing for an automatic spot in the first part of the season however an alarming dip in form saw them gradually slip down the table.

It left them with a lot of work to do in the last few weeks to make the top six but that appears beyond them after defeat to Birmingham last time out.

Yet, as mentioned, it's still been a positive campaign after years in League One although boss Chris Wilder does not see it like that.

The ambitious manager will want to be challenging again next season and here we look at four players that would benefit the squad if he was given a big budget...

Enda Stevens is a very capable left wing-back but it's a very demanding role and Wilder could benefit from increased competition in that position.

One man who would excel there is Bournemouth's Brad Smith. The Australian hasn't made an impact since a £6m move to Eddie Howe's team but he does have quality.

With real energy to get forward and composure on the ball, he would be a good signing for the Blades.

One defining moment in the Blades campaign was a season-ending injury for Paul Coutts. With the classy midfielder they were competing at the top and their form dropped as soon as he was out.

A few midfielder have arrived since and whilst Lee Evans looks a good player they are still missing something in the middle.

Adam Clayton would solve that and he would importantly bring experience and a winning mentality to the side. He's won promotion before and played in the top-flight and could help the Blades now only on the pitch but off it too.

There are times this season when Sheffield United have been to predictable and lacking that bit of magic in the final third.

Whether it's a final pass, the ability to beat a man or a cool finish, the quality isn't always there.

However, Grosicki would provide them with that class and with Wilder's man-management he would back himself to get the best out of the Poland international.

The formation may need tweaking but it would be worth it in the end.

It's harsh to criticise the Blades strike force when both Clarke and Sharp have had very good goal scoring seasons.

Yet, they still could've done more. Wilder has hit out at the missed opportunities in recent weeks and Clarke in particular went through long spells without scoring.

Whilst Oliveira has had a mixed campaign, he is the natural number nine that the Blades need.