Sheffield United 1 Swansea City 0: McCabe is not frightened of relegation in Blades revival

The Blades recorded losses of 18m last year and are now locked in a battle for Championship survival.

On the flipside of the coin, McCabe has turned United into a club which owes nothing to the bank and has the facilities to rival the majority in the Premier League.

Yet splendid surroundings are one thing. Splendid opposition is often more important in measuring a club's success or failure.

If the Blades dropped down to League One, it would forever haunt McCabe, especially after coming so close to achieving 'top 10' status three years ago.

Currently without a permanent manager following Gary Speed's decision to quit for the Wales job, the Blades produced a gritty performance against one of the best passing sides in the Championship to move four points clear of the relegation zone.

Ched Evans, the club's last 'big' acquisition in the transfer market two summers ago, scored the winning goal – but has still to justify his 3m transfer tag.

"We have spent too much money and tried too hard to feed the football team since getting relegated from the Premier League," McCabe admitted. "In truth, we have failed – but we have come close.

"We spent 2.5m on loan players last season. Did it work? Short term fixes do not work and we have lost a bit of that unity that made Sheffield United so successful in the past.

"We have not always spent wisely on first-team football," he added. "But my family has ploughed money in to this club to have a new stadium, a hotel, an Academy and a junior academy.

"For writing off debts of 12m, I wouldn't think I should be criticised."

McCabe may have stepped down as football club chairman but is still Plc chairman, a position he has held for a decade, and will have a major say in the appointment of the club's next manager.

"I have never experienced relegation to League One and I don't want to start now," he said. "Whoever comes in needs to ensure they take us up the table – because this squad is still a good squad. We shouldn't be where we are in the league but we have got to address it not ignore it."

Caretaker manager John Carver and Doncaster Rovers manager Sean O'Driscoll are the primary contenders at this stage.

"As a supporter, I don't want to see relegation but, if that is necessary to re-shape, then fine," McCabe said, in a statement which would surely suit O'Driscoll's long-term approach to football management.

"Our shareholders have also indicated that they will accept that readily – if it is a case of going backwards to come forwards again. We will still make mistakes but, if we do, they will be for the right reasons."

Blades fans were unsettled on Saturday and often showed little sign of sympathy towards the club's current plight.

The Blades were intent on stopping Swansea and the tactics duly paid off but were not always easy on the eye.

Had Evans not scored on the stroke of half-time, the frustration of the fans could easily have spilled over.

Yet the goal lifted spirits and also warmed the hands, instantly transforming the mood.

Swansea, who have now won only one of their last five games, improved after the break thanks to the introduction of substitutes Darren Pratley and Jermaine Easter.

It took vital interventions from Kyle Bartley and a couple of stops from goalkeeper Steve Simonsen to preserve the Blades' lead.

Defender Nyron Nosworthy nearly pressed the self destruct button, when caught in possession on halfway, but Scott Sinclair's shot was too high.

Evans was unlucky not to add a second two minutes from time after beating two players in the area but his shot was pushed around the post by goalkeeper Dorus De Vries.

Afterwards, the Welsh international revealed that the players had dedicated their victory to former manager Speed.

And Evans also admitted that there would be no complaints from the players if caretaker Carver landed the job on a permanent basis.

"It's not ideal to have more than two managers in one season," said Evans. "The players were disappointed to see Gary go but if the chance comes along to manage your country you have got to take it.

"He would have been proud of us for getting this win so that was for him," he added.

"If the job was offered to John now, I don't think there would be any groans around the place because he is quality. If he went, it would be just as bad as losing Gary Speed.

"All the lads have a good relationship with John and it's down to him whether he wants to step up and be the manager. You can't have the same relationship with a manager as you can with a coach and I think he is a top coach."

MATCH FOCUS

Hero: Kyle Bartley

Unsung hero at the heart of the Blades defence, the on-loan teenager won the majority of his headers and made a number of vital tackles. Looks a player with a big future.

Villain: David Cotterill

Although one of three former Blades in the Swansea squad, the Welsh winger got the most stick – presumably for being the biggest let down during his time at Bramall Lane.

Key moment

44 minutes. Ched Evans scores the only goal of the game but owes a massive thankyou to midfielder Andy Reid for a brilliant pass.

Ref Watch

Mike Russell. Disallowed Stephen Quinn's early 'goal' for offside. It was touch-and-go but ultimately it did not affect the result. That apart, the Hertfordshire official kept a low profile which is good.

Verdict

Impressive defensive display by the Blades against one of the division's best passing side and a vital victory which lifts the club four points clear of the relegation zone

Quote of the day

I feel sorry for the supporters and directors who tried to get up here without success – but it was a good one to miss!

– Swansea City manager Brendan Rodgers spares a thought for those stranded in Wales.

Next game

Hull City, home, Boxing Day, 3.00pm, Championship.