Blades boss denies rift with player

Sheffield United manager Kevin Blackwell insists there is no animosity between himself and Nick Montgomery after the midfielder turned down a new contract offer.

Montgomery's current deal expires in the summer and the 28-year-old recently rejected a new two-year deal with the Blades. However, Blackwell believes it is only a matter of time before he signs a new contract given the important role he plays at Bramall Lane.

"There's no problem between us. Absolutely none at all. I love Monty to bits," he told the Sheffield Star.

He added: "Whatever the situation is I know I can count on Monty to give everything during our remaining games.

"Sheffield United and Nick Montgomery go together and I honestly don't believe he'd be the same if he went anywhere else."

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