From the OS.....Webbo on the ball today
Gary Speed is poised to become a Sheffield United player at the turn of the year.
The Blades have reached an agreement with Bolton Wanderers that will see the 38 year old sign on loan on 1st January with a view to a permanent signing.
That will enable the Welsh International to come into contention for United's first fixture of the new year at Wolves.
For Bryan Robson it is the culmination of several months of persistence aimed at bringing Speed to the Lane:
"I tried to get Gary before the season started but Bolton wouldn't release him, since then I spoke to Sammy Lee before deadline day, and then Gary Megson but got the same answer so it has been an ongoing thing."
The United boss admitted to being interested in Speed a long time ago when he was managing Middlesbrough but couldn't land him:
"He was in a very successful side then and was big money, but I am still pleased to get him now. He's a very experienced player, a 'youthful' late 30's type whose knowledge will be invaluable to us."
The acquisition is a huge relief for Robson who has been chasing a playmaker all season and he will utilise Speed in the central midfield role he has been occupying during the latter stages of his career:
"He will come into the squad for Wolves and I have no doubt about his fitness levels. He was in Bolton's European team recently when they got a good result, and then against Liverpool, so he doesn't come here needing games to get going."
