Sheffield United boss Kevin Blackwell insists James Beattie's absence from their tour of Europe is down to a "niggling calf problem".The Blades striker is struggling with a calf strain and missed out on training last week.

Blackwell said: "The niggling calf problem, which has caused him a bit of discomfort in previous pre-season campaigns, has forced him to miss a week's training, so we've left him back at the ranch to catch up."

The Blades are scheduled to play three matches during their mini tour, starting with a clash with Ferencvaros in Budapest, then KVK Tienen in Belgium and against Dutch side Helmond Sport.

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