Sheffield United boss Bryan Robson expects to complete the loan signing of Manchester United defender Phil Bardsley on Monday.The 22-year-old, due to finalise his three-month stay at Bramall Lane, has been drafted in as cover for right-back Derek Geary, who has been ruled out for up to six weeks following knee surgery.

Eccles-born Bardsley, who began his scholarship at Old Trafford in 2001, has made 18 first-team appearances for Sir Alex Ferguson's side after making his debut in December 2003.

Bardsley has since had loans spells at Royal Antwerp, Burnley, Rangers and Aston Villa, where he made 13 first-team appearances late last season.

Robson confirmed Bardsley's switch could be made permanent depending on how the player fitted in at Bramall Lane.

Robson hopes to add a second new player to his squad in the next couple of days, with a midfielder his priority.

The boss refused to reveal the player's identity or his club, but revealed he was currently in the top flight.

Robson said: "I'm hopeful of bringing in a central midfield player.

"I'm always on the lookout for Premiership players as they are usually comfortable with the demands of dropping down a level."

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