Sheffield United chief executive Trevor Birch has spoken of the feelings of frustration being faced by everyone associated with the Blades as the club's poor run of form continues.

United have now gone 14 games without a victory and have dropped into the relegation zone.

"It is agony," said Mr Birch. "Everyone at the club is hurting because of the run of results. There is no getting away from it.

"I know the fans are frustrated - and I can assure them so am I and the rest of the Board. Recently the Blades fans have been remarkable in their support. We took large travelling numbers to both of our last two games at Palace and Scunthorpe. They are the lifeblood of our club and they deserve to see the team acquiring points as we battle against relegation. It is really important that we thank them for their support during this very difficult period.

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"It is easy supporting your team in the premier league but when they are second bottom in the championship it is a lot harder. It Is typical of what I have seen in my short time here at Bramall Lane that many of the supporters have continued their loyal following. It is going to be very hard to write to people shortly with our season ticket renewals for next season but we have to plan for the future and life has to go on. I know that many true Blades will stay with us through this very trying time and be ready to enjoy things when they inevitably turn for the better.

"The enthusiasm of our dedicated support is fantastic. We have already sold over 500 tickets for Saturday's fixture at Portsmouth and they will let everyone know at Fratton Park they are Blades.

"I am hurting along with the supporters at the current run of results. Believe me we are all in this predicament together and although it is very disappointing we all have to keep going and get behind Micky and the boys who will be working their hardest this week in training to prepare for Saturday's game against Portsmouth. Everyone at this club is doing everything in their power to make a difference to what happens on the pitch."