Leeds unable to sway Montgomery as he stays with Blades

The influential midfielder yesterday ended speculation about his future by signing a three-year deal at Bramall Lane and immediately underlined his ambition of helping the Blades return to the Premier League.

It is understood newly-promoted Leeds stepped up their pursuit of United's current player of the year on Tuesday.

Premier League Bolton, Middlesbrough, Burnley and QPR, the latter led by his former Blades manager Neil Warnock, were also in the running.

But the talented 28-year-old says after a great deal of soul-searching he was unable to turn his back on the club where he has spent the last decade.

"Sheffield United are a massive club but I've had a few weeks of long, hard thinking about my future," he said.

"Other clubs came in with offers but at the end of the day I have decided my future lies here.

"I've been 10 years at Bramall Lane and this club is a massive part of my life.

"The reason it took so long was because I just wanted to study other options. I just thought for my own peace of mind I needed to see what else was out there but the main thing for me – apart from my affection for this club – is that the grass isn't always greener."

The decision of captain Chris Morgan to extend his stay at Bramall Lane helped convince Montgomery – who has more than 300 games under his belt for the South Yorkshire outfit after progressing through their Academy – that manager Kevin Blackwell is ready to build a side to get them out of the Championship.

"I spoke to other clubs and there were good offers on the table," he said.

"I'm not going to lie – there were bigger offers put in front of me in terms of the wages I have accepted here.

"But I just wanted to stay and when I see people like Chris Morgan committing himself to Sheffield United then I know you have to believe that there is a successful future for the Blades.

"I'm delighted that the whole thing has now been resolved."

Leeds-born Montgomery made his Blades debut in October 2000 and has carved out a reputation as a combative presence in the heart of midfield.

He was a key figure in the side which won promotion to the Premier League in 2006 and held his own during their sole campaign in the top flight, attracting suitors when they were relegated but remaining at Bramall Lane.

The desire to move elsewhere could have been kindled after United, beaten play-off finalists 12 months ago, finished in a disappointing eighth spot.

But Montgomery insisted: "We finished last season only five points off the play-offs despite all the problems we had with injuries.

"I firmly believe that if the gaffer can get in the players he wants to bring here then we can go one better (than play-off finalist) next time around."

QPR are believed to be considering an improved offer for United's goalkeeper Paddy Kenny who is still in talks with the club about a new contract.

However, after United stood by him last season during his nine-month ban for failing a drugs test, it is understood the Republic of Ireland international will repay their faith and re-sign at Bramall Lane.