Sheffield United manager Kevin Blackwell officially launched the Blades pre-season tour of Malta by placing his handprint in cement at the Bay Street shopping mall on Wednesday.

Immediately after etching his name in the island's history, Blackwell was escorted to the five-star InterContinental Hotel to greet a number of United fans who have made the journey across to the heart of the Mediterranean.

Providing plenty of encouragement on how Sheffield United's preparations were going ahead of the new season, the large contingent of Blades fans were given the low-down during the question and answer session with Blackwell.

The intimate affair saw Blackwell joined by club chairman Kevin McCabe, United's CEO Trevor Birch and new signing Daniel Bogdanovic.

The panel answered questions on a variety of subjects that ranged from United's new signings, pre-season preparations and the Blades' ultimate goal of returning back to the Premiership.

"Today has been a real eye-opener," said 22 year-old Blades fan Michael Hart.

"We all appreciated getting an insight into the manager's plans ahead of the season. It was also fascinating to get the thoughts of Kevin McCabe, Trevor Birch and Bogdanovic.

"It really feels the club is moving in the right direction.

"We have made so many friends with the Maltese. It is a fantastic island and everyone is so friendly. It's been the perfect start to our trip!"

Blackwell said: "It has certainly been an eventful first day in Malta. The welcome we have received from the Maltese people has once again been overwhelming.

"Meeting up with some of our fans that travelled across to Malta was a great way to start our visit. However, it's important that we stay focused on completing a crucial stage of our pre-season preparations and the hard work starts now."

Tournament

Sheffield United fans will head to Corradino this evening to watch the Blades play in a friendly tournament - the JPL Cisk Lager Cup - that will also see the participation of Maltese Premier League sides Hibs and Vittoriosa Stars.

Each match will be of a 45-minute duration. Hibs take on Vittoriosa Stars in the opening match, starting at 7.30 p.m., with Sheffield United meeting the loser of the first game in the second fixture.

The third and final match will be between the Blades and the winner of the curtain-raiser.

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