Sheffield United's players are set to kick-off 2021 with a sparkling, state-of-the-art first team training centre, reports www.fcbusiness.co.uk

The board of directors has given the green light for the project, despite the current economic challenges facing the football industry. The two-storey building, which will be comprised of a gym, training area, physiotherapy, and hydrotherapy zones, as well as office facilities, highlights Prince Abdullah's commitment to a long-term strategy to build and strengthen the club, both on and off the field.

United's chief executive officer, Stephen Bettis, said of the project: "The principle aim of this development is to create a purpose-built, fully-equipped high-performance environment that is rooted in the long-standing identity and tradition of Sheffield United, Blades' supporters and the city of Sheffield.

"Central to the heart and soul of this project is the provision of an elite player experience that drives first team performance and health needs.

"The training centre will be a key factor in the next phase of the club's progressive ambition of becoming a permanent member of the Premier League. It will serve to ultimately sharpen our competitive edge."

Having secured their Premier League status, United's manager, Chris Wilder, an advocate of the new-build, commented: "This is will be a great addition to our armoury and will aid in giving the training ground a Premier League feel. We are delighted that the board have given supported this development and are hopeful that the additional elements that come with the new building will help us move to the next level."

The new training centre will be built on the current Shirecliffe site. The structure will sit between the two existing buildings, on the perimeter of the current first team training pitches.