McMahon backed to be Blades favourite

The Blades boss has had a busy summer of overhauling his squad since losing out to Huddersfield Town in the League One play-off in May.

Youngsters like Matt Lowton have been sold to help balance the Bramall Lane books, but the capture of McMahon from Middlesbrough ona two-year deal is a real coup for the Blades.

The 26-year-old – who like Wilson has links with city neighbours Wednesday, the full-back playing 15 times for the Owls in 2008 – capped his first start for his new club with a goal against Morecambe at the weekend and looks set to make his bow at Bramall Lane on Saturday when Burton Albion are the visitors in the first round of the Capital One Cup.

“Tony (McMahon) has vast experience for someone relatively young and to execute his goal in the manner he did can only benefit us this season,” said boss Wilson.

“We know his qualities, he is experienced and a tough nut who isn’t afraid of getting involved in things and I think he is in an excellent addition defensively because he stands his corner and is a good communicator.

“He was attracted to Sheffield United and, with all respect to our rivals, we can still lure players to Bramall Lane, who perhaps should be playing at a higher level.

“Tony believes we will be challenging for promotion and everyone feels we are capable of going one better than last season.”

McMahon was given the shirt No 29 – the same he wore at Middlesbrough – when the Blades revealed their squad numbers this week.

Goalkeeper Mark Howard takes over the No 1 jersey following the exit of Steve Simonsen, while Darryl Westlake takes over the No 2 following Lowton’s transfer. Former captain Chris Morgan’s retirement means centre-half Harry Maguire inherits the No 5 shirt.

Wilson is looking towards his Bramall Lane Academy youngsters to help bolster his squad this season and has been impressed with their pre-season efforts, with the likes of Callum McFadzean and Joe Ironside to the fore.

“Callum (McFadzean) is a good prospect, he is very inexperienced, but as with a few of the younger lads we feel we could utilise them as impact players as the season progresses,” he said. “Joe (Ironside) is a big strong lad and is something we need. He isn’t blessed with a lot of pace but he utilises what he does have to the full and he is a tough person to play against.”

Ironside, who has netted twice in pre-season, has the No 24 shirt while McFazdean gets the No 26 jersey.