Striker James Beattie will return to the Sheffield United squad for Saturday's trip to Layer Road to face Championship strugglers Colchester.The Blades' leading goalscorer has missed the last seven matches since damaging knee ligaments in the Boxing Day draw with Blackpool.

United manager Bryan Robson has no shortage of strikers at his disposal and is not expected to rush the club's record £4million summer signing straight back into the starting line-up.

Robson, however, will give late fitness tests to defenders Gary Naysmith (shoulder) and Derek Geary (knee) and striker Jon Stead (hip).

Midfielder Nick Montgomery will be sidelined on a long-term basis after breaking a bone in his foot.

Robson has hinted recent signing Ugo Ehiogu will partner Chris Morgan at the heart of defence following the sale of Leigh Bromby to Watford.

New loan signing Goran Slavkovski could also be in the squad after the striker joined from Inter Milan on Thursday.

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