Bryan Robson has refused to comment on reports he is set to return to football management by being named as the successor to Neil Warnock at Sheffield United.

The 50-year-old former Middlesbrough and West Brom boss has emerged as the clear favourite after the Blades indicated they were looking for an experienced manager.

The club have also stressed their desire to make a speedy decision and hope to have a new boss in place by the beginning of next week - though they insist reports of Robson's imminent appointment are premature.

Contacted yesterday, Robson, who recently established a sports-consultancy business, said: "I have absolutely nothing to say about it at the moment."

It is understood that while his business interests would require a tempting offer to lure him back into management, Robson would consider Sheffield United a sufficiently attractive option.

The job would enable him to link up with his former Manchester United associate Brian Kidd, who is first-team coach at Bramall Lane and would likely be Robson's assistant.

Kenny Dalglish, Peter Reid and Dave Bassett have also been linked to the job.

Sheffield United chairman Terry Robinson said three shortlists were being drawn up, but he left no doubt the club strongly favours another experienced boss in the mould of the 58-year-old Warnock.