Nigel Adkins back in football at Sheffield United

Sheffield United have confirmed Nigel Adkins as their new manager on a three-year contract.

The 50-year-old returns to management six months after he was sacked by Championship outfit Reading.

He replaces Nigel Clough, who was dismissed last week following the Blades' semi-final defeat in the League One playoffs.

Adkins has been promoted from League One three times, twice with Scunthorpe United and most recently with Southampton.

Joining him at Brammall Lane are assistant manager Andy Crosby and first-team coach Dean Wilkins.