Nationwide: Ripley on trial with Blades

Former England international Stuart Ripley will train with the Blades this week as Sheffield United boss Neil Warnock ponders a move for the Southampton winger.

The 34-year-old has not figured for the Saints since the end of October and has indicated a desire to move north as his playing career nears an end.

But Warnock has refused to indicate whether he is interested in Ripley on loan or a permanent basis.

A club spokesman said: ‘‘The gaffer hasn’t committed himself to anything at the moment. He’s just having a look at him in training.’’