Sheffield United are gearing up their pre-season preparations ahead of their tour of Malta.

Kevin Blackwell and the Blades squad will travel to the islands next week for the start of an intense training programme.

Birkirkara have had to withdraw from the triangular tournament they were due to contend with Sheffield United and Vittoriosa Stars. The Stripes reached the Champions League second qualifying round and they will now play Slovakia's MSK Zilina during the week of United's tour.

Hibernians have taken up the challenge and will be hosting the round-robin fixtures at their stadium in Corradino. The first kick-off is between the two Maltese sides on Friday evening, at 7:30 p.m.

Sheffield United's shining relationship with the Malta Tourism Authority will enable the club to stage a host of activities that will act as the perfect precursors to the tournament.

The action starts with Blackwell and Daniel Bogdanovic supporting a fans' forum on Tuesday. Fans will also have the chance to enjoy a barbecue attended by the players (July 14) and watch a Blades training session open to the public (July 15).

The Blades' Maltese newcomer Bogdanovic said: "Obviously, I am looking forward to the trip tremendously and I know from speaking to the lads who went last year that they loved what they saw of the island.

"I know a lot of people in Malta and it will be good to catch up with them and the fans - and doing it as a Sheffield United player will make it that bit more special."

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