Ex-Sheffield United boss hoping for swift return to management

Blackwell, who left Bramall Lane by mutual consent following last month's 3-0 home defeat to QPR after a miserable start to the season, expressed his disappointment at departing just three games into the new season.

The 51-year-old said: "It's obviously very disappointing to have left Sheffield United, but I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the club and feel I made a positive contribution while I was there.

"I would like to take this opportunity to wish the club, the management, the players and the supporters all the very best for the future.

"Now that we have reached a resolution, I can look forward to returning to management in the not too distant future."

Blackwell, a UEFA Pro License holder - the highest technical qualification in the game - was replaced at Bramall Lane by his coach Gary Speed.

A statement from the League Managers Association said: "The League Managers Association (LMA) can confirm that Kevin Blackwell and Sheffield United Football Club have settled all issues in relation to his departure from the club on August 14, 2010.

"Blackwell joined Sheffield United in February 2008 and enjoyed immediate success in his first full season by guiding the club to a play-off final at Wembley, narrowly missing out on place in the Barclays Premier League to Burnley.

"Kevin went on to manage 125 matches for Sheffield United with an overall win percentage of 42.40% - an outstanding record by any measure throughout the professional game - and finished in the top nine of the Championship in each of his three seasons at the club.

"During his time in charge, the club also stopped receiving parachute payments and sold quality players including James Beattie, Kyle Walker and Kyle Naughton."

LMA chief executive Richard Bevan added: "The LMA shares Kevin's disappointment at his leaving Sheffield United, especially after only two league games into a new season.

"Kevin is an experienced and successful manager, particularly in the Championship, and I would expect him to be back managing in the game at a high level very soon."