Sheffield born Kyle Naughton is being tipped to succeed by Kevin Blackwell - if he continues his current rate of progress.

The versatile 19 year old who was on loan at Gretna for part of last season has stepped into the senior squad at the Lane and the United boss insists that youth is not necessarily a barrier to a senior breakthrough:

"If they are good enough, they are in - it's as simple as that.

"Kyle Naughton will get his opportunity and it will be up to him to take it. He's been on pre-season with us and done well."

Blackwell understands the importance of role models and in at least two of his current squad can demonstrate that the right attitude can ensure a long stay in the game:

"If he wants to have a Gary Speed and Ugo Ehiogu type career over 18 or 19 years then he has to work very hard at every aspect of his game.

"It will be great if he can achieve that and, so far, I am pleased with him."