Sheffield United chief Stephen Bettis has explained their plans for Ismaila Coulibaly.

The midfielder signed for the Blades over the summer before moving on-loan to Beerschot.

"Sheffield United's recruitment department looked at him, after he was highlighted by the central group (of United World) recruitment team," Bettis told the Athletic.

"They saw the potential but didn't think he was ready to play here from day one.

“This way, we got to strengthen Beerschot by signing him. They develop him but, to put it bluntly, if Chris says he wants him then he gets on the next plane to England.

“The opportunity to sign for Sheffield United was a big attraction for him.

“Coulibaly knew from the start he was signing for us but going straight to Beerschot.

“He found that proposition more attractive than going elsewhere.

"Basically, he is backing himself to be good enough to, at some stage, play for Sheffield United. A win-win for all parties."