Sheffield United are set to be handed a welcome injury boost ahead fo the new Championship campaign, with Billy Sharp edging closer to a return to action. 

The forward missed the Blades' last nine matches in the Premier League last season through injury, as they dropped out of the top-flight after a disappointing year.

Sharp played an important role in the club's promotion-winning campaign back in the 2018/19 season, and he'll be keen to make his mark in the second tier of football once again.

The 35-year-old scored 24 goals in 42 appearances in that season, and will be eager to play his part for the Blades once again.

Speaking in a recent interview (quotes sourced from The Star), Jokanovic revealed that Billy Sharp is close to a return to action ahead of the new season.

"They are working hard to get back and, the same as with everyone, I am pleased with their commitment. They (McBurnie and Burke) are out. Billy is closer and if things continue as they are, he will probably be the first (to feature)."

Sheffield United are set to take on Birmingham City in their opening match of the Championship season, which takes place on Saturday 7th August at Bramall Lane.

The Verdict: 

This will be a promising update to hear of for the Sheffield United supporters.

Sharp was a key player for them in their promotion-winning season back in 2018/19, and he'll be hoping he can have a similar impact for the Blades this term.

It's not ideal for Slavisa Jokanovic to have some key players absent during pre-season, as he would have been wanting to assess his options since coming in as the club's new manager.

But if the Blades boss can have all of his players fit and available for selection for the majority of the 2021/22 campaign, then you'd expect to see Sheffield United challenging for promotion back into the Premier League at the first time of asking.