Sheffield United manager Paul Heckingbottom has revealed that he is not likely to strengthen his squad in the January transfer window.

Heckingbottom was handed over the reins at Bramall Lane yesterday after the club's hierarchy decided to sack Slavisa Jokanovic following a relatively underwhelming start to the 2021/22 campaign.

Despite guiding the Blades to victory in their showdown with Reading earlier this week, the Serbian was relieved of his duties.

Currently eight points adrift of the play-off places in the Championship, United will need to step up to the mark over the Christmas period if they are to challenge for a top-six finish next year.

Having worked with the majority of the club's players during his interim spell in charge of the Blades last season, it will be intriguing to see if Heckingbottom opts to make any significant changes to his squad in January.

Making reference to his plans for the upcoming transfer window, the 44-year-old has admitted that United could wave goodbye to some of their players in January whilst he has also suggested that it is unlikely that he will strengthen his team.

Speaking to Yorkshire Live about the possibility of drafting in some fresh faces, Heckingbottom said: "I am not expecting that.

"Maybe outs more than ins but I believe in these players."

The Verdict

When you consider that the Blades are currently 16th in the Championship standings, it is somewhat of a surprise that Heckingbottom is taking this particular stance when it comes to transfers as the club could potentially benefit from signing some new players.

However, with Heckingbottom seemingly set to back his current squad to deliver the goods at this level, it will be interesting to see whether United are able to push on in the second-tier.

As for potential departures, Heckingbottom ought to consider letting some of the club's fringe players secure moves to other teams if they are not part of his plans for the future.

With the Blades set to enter a new dawn on Sunday, Heckingbottom will be desperate to make the perfect start to his permanent spell in charge of the Championship side by leading the club to victory in their showdown with Bristol City at Bramall Lane.