Warnock leaves United

Manager Neil Warnock has left Sheffield United by mutual consent.

The Blades were relegated from the Premier League on the final day of their first season back in the top flight after losing 2-1 to fellow strugglers Wigan on Sunday.

Warnock turned down a new contract at Bramall Lane recently, claiming the offer - worth around £750,000 had the club remained in the Premier League and £450,000 after relegation - was unacceptable.

After seven-and-a-half years at the club, the 58-year-old insisted he would renew talks with the club at the end of the season and it had been expected that he would remain with the Blades until their dramatic final-day defeat.

United plc chairman Kevin McCabe said: "This is a mutual decision in some respects prompted by the events of the last couple of days. Both Neil and I believe it is for the good of the club. Neil departs with our best wishes."

Warnock conceded that it was time for him to move on, but insisted he could be proud of what he has achieved since arriving in 1999.

"Kevin McCabe and I sat down together on Monday because I had come to the decision that it was time for me to leave Sheffield United.

"I have been at the club for seven-and-a-half years and if anyone could turn the clock back to where we were then and how we are now, it is fair to say that we have come a long, long way. In my opinion we have moved mountains - on and off the pitch - and have put the pride back into being a Blade."

Meanwhile, McCabe said the board would not rush to appoint a successor.

"We want to take a considered view as part of the transformation and shaping one of the best clubs in the land. Exciting times and further challenges lie ahead on and off the field for United and the new manager will have a full part to play."