Double helping: Sheffield United close on longer deals for Ebanks-Landell and Lafferty

Both loan players have been integral to the Blades lsitting top of the League One table, but there had been fears over their future in the January transfer window.

But United are close to agreeing an extension to Ebanks-Landell’s loan from Wolverhampton until the end of the season, while thrashing out a permanent contract for Lafferty with parent club Burnley.

“We are close with Daniel Lafferty, and Ethan,” said Blades boss Chris Wilder. “Hopefully over the next 24-48 hours those deals will be concluded.

“We have got offers in place and close to getting players through the door. We are quite content with where we are at.”

There was more positive news for United on Thursday when striker Leon Clarke returned to training.

Clarke missed the trip to Bury on Monday with an ankle injury suffered in the New Year’s Eve win over Northampton Town.

There were fears he could be sidelined for a while, but he could be available for selection for Saturday’s League One trip to Southend United.

“Good news, hopefully Leon will train today and we will see how he comes through that training session,” said Wilder.

“We thought it would be touch and go for the weekend, and no chances will be taken at this stage of the season.

“But if he trains and available, then he will be involved.

“Everyone else is okay and looking forward to a tough away game at Southend.”

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