One of Sheffield United's oldest living legends is preparing to return to the club to celebrate his 85th anniversary - at the Legends of the Lane facility in which he is featured.

Fred Furniss, whose contribution to the club has been immortalised at United's Legends of the Lane on the Wall of Fame, is set to toast his 85th birthday.

Fred, who is a senior Blade and season ticket holder, made his debut for United in 1941 in a 3-3 draw with Everton at Goodison Park during an air-raid. He signed his first professional contract with the club in 1946 once the football league was re-established after the war.

He clocked up 433 appearances, scoring 18 goals and never missed a penalty for the Blades. He helped United secure the league championship in the 1952/53 season and is now a keen crown green bowler.

Sheffield United's John Garrett said: "Fred is a true legend of the Lane and we're delighted to help him celebrate such a milestone birthday."