Sheffield United caretaker boss Paul Heckingbottom says players will be selected on merit for the remainder of the season.

Heckingbottom handed Iliman Ndiaye a Prem debut for the thrashing by Leicester City on the weekend.

Heckingbottom said: "I have not been told anything in terms of picking the team or [playing] the under 23s.

"Iliman is a good player, simple as that. That's why he got on the pitch.

"The players know I am being honest with them.

"They can set the standards now and say what they need to be and where they want to go between now and the end of the season.

"I'll not be picking anyone who does not meet that workrate and effort.

"I see that as my job to the players and if I don't do that I am letting them down. Whoever the next manager is will be watching and whenever that appointment is made he will have seen all of these performances.

"My job is to make sure the players apply themselves the best they possibly can and that's my aim and that's why Iliman got on the pitch because he's been doing that."

The youngster took to social media following the match.

"Proud to have made my debut in the Premier League for Sheffield United," he said.

"A massive thanks to all the staff and coaches who have helped me get here. Proud moment for me and my family.

"The best is yet to come."