Former Sheffield United chairman Kevin McCabe is insisting the club retract a “misleading" statement they published in response to his admission that a deal to sell the club's property interests to its new owner has collapsed.

A spokesperson acting on McCabe's behalf last night told The Star their client was “devastated" to read the contents of the communique, released to the media on Wednesday evening, which prompted some supporters to fear he wants to build flats on Bramall Lane; United's historic home stadium.

“Kevin McCabe was devastated to read the statement issued by Sheffield United Football Club yesterday evening and the understandable outrage of the club's fans at the highly misleading impression it gave," McCabe's representative said. “There are a number of things that Blades fans should know. These are outlined in detail below with documentary proof, but in essence: it was Abdullah who reneged not Kevin.

“The Prince wanted Kevin to transfer the stadium to an unidentified third party last month and Kevin felt this was not appropriate and could jeopardise the future of the stadium as United's home ground.

“Mr McCabe has been a lifelong supporter of the Blades and has routinely provided additional cash from his own pocket whenever the club needed it. He has guaranteed obligations of the club without hesitation."