Sheffield United boss Nigel Clough has remained upbeat after seeing his team suffer a late defeat to MK Dons.

The Blades were beaten 1-0 at Bramall Lane on Tuesday night as Dele Alli struck with three minutes left to give the Dons the points.

Despite having their winless run extended to three matches in the league, Clough believes that his players can be proud of their performance.

"The lads played very well. I was delighted with the effort they put in, especially in the second half when we penned them in for long periods," he is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News.

"I thought we put a good few balls in the box but we don't seem to be getting a break at the moment. I thought to a man we played well. We'll take that performance. It's just that sometimes the result doesn't come with it."

United return to FA Cup action on Saturday when they host Plymouth Argyle in the second round.