James Beattie could miss Sheffield United's opening game of the season at Birmingham after undergoing minor knee surgery.

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• Player profile: James Beattie

Beattie, the Blades' top scorer last season with 22 goals, had his cartilage "trimmed" last week and will be sidelined for up to four weeks.

United manager Kevin Blackwell stepped up his bid to complete the signing of Darius Henderson from Watford for £2million when learning Beattie required an operation and following Rob Hulse's £1.75million sale to Derby.

Blackwell was also anxious to head off interest from Fulham, Birmingham and Wolves to bring Doncaster-born Henderson, 26, back to South Yorkshire.

Beattie will have a better idea of his chances of returning to full fitness in time for the opening-day clash at Birmingham after being assessed by the Bramall Lane medical team.