Sheffield United have granted Gary Speed permission to speak with Swansea City about succeeding Roberto Martinez as manager.

Martinez is leaving the Swans for Wigan Athletic and Blades boss Kevin Blackwell told the Yorkshire Post: "We would never deny anyone an opportunity to further their career and if Gary feels that this would, we won't stand in his way.

"He may speak to them and decide that he wants to stay with us, which would be great news as far as I am concerned. But it is important Gary has no regrets."

Speed, who has played for Everton, Newcastle and Bolton after starting his career at Leeds, joined the Blades, initially on loan in January 2008, before completing a permanent £250,000 transfer soon after.