McAllister settling in as Blades look to climb

SHEFFIELD United newcomer David McAllister has vowed to build on the 'shock' of his FA Cup debut against Aston Villa.

Midfielder McAllister, 22, had been a Blades player for just over a week when he was called on by manager Micky Adams to play against the Premier League side.

With only 12 senior players available due to a crippling injury list, McAllister – signed on a free transfer from Irish club St Patricks Athletic – started on the substitutes' bench before replacing Lee Williamson in the centre of the pitch with 15 minutes to go.

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Although the Blades slipped to a 3-1 defeat, McAllister did enough on his debut to push for consideration for this weekend's trip to Coventry City.

"When the FA Cup draw was made, I didn't think I could possibly be involved but I was thrown in and it was a dream come true," he said.

"There are a lot of injuries at the club just now so chances might come along a little sooner than I thought. We will see what happens."

McAllister was part of a double swoop by the Blades on the Irish League with defender Seamus Conneely, also 22, joining from Galway United. Both players have signed 18-month deals.

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"After three or four games, I will feel a bit more comfortable," said McAllister. "You can do as much fitness work as you can but it never compares to what is needed in a game.

"We are still settling into life in Sheffield and, hopefully, we can concentrate on our football now and help the gaffer when we are required – because we know this club is desperate to move up the table quickly."

The Blades have also signed striker Danny Philliskirk, 19, on a month's loan from Chelsea. His father Tony, also a striker, played for the Blades in the Eighties.