Wilson aims to persuade Kitson against sailing off to the States

The former Reading and Portsmouth striker is contracted at Bramall Lane until January, after which he plans to emigrate to the United States with his family.

But Blades manager Danny Wilson hopes that the prospect of finishing off a promotion push with United will persuade the 32-year-old otherwise.

“We think he should stay, but he has a big decision to make because he wants to take his family over to the United States,” said Wilson.

“He’s brought strength, experience, finesse and goals to our team, and he’s clearly a big asset to us.

“He’s really enjoying himself here and a lot will depend on where we are in the league and how he is performing at the turn of the year. If we are flying high and he’s making a big impact then he’s got a decision to make.

“At the end of the day, Dave is only 32 and although he’s in League One at the moment, it is clear from the way he goes about his job that he is still well capable of doing it at a higher level.

“What we have to do is make it as difficult as we possibly can for him to leave us in January.”

United are one of only three unbeaten teams in England’s top four divisions – along with Chelsea and Manchester City – but their home form could be better, with just two victories supplementing four draws. “We are due a home win,” said Wilson.

Defender Lecsinel Jean-Francois has tweaked a cartilage and is to undergo an operation on Thursday, which is expected to rule him out for two months.

Last six games: Sheffield United DWWDWW, Walsall WLLDLD.

Last time: Sheffield Utd 3 Walsall 2; August 16, 2011; League One.

Referee: G Eltringham (Durham).