Speed set to leave Blades for Wales

Championship club Sheffield United have confirmed they allowed manager Gary Speed to speak with Wales about coaching the national side.

Speed was only appointed to the United post in August on a three-year deal, but he is thought to be likely to take the job for the nation he represented between 1990 and 2004.

United released a statement confirming the former Leeds and Newcastle midfielder was in talks with the Football Association of Wales.

“Sheffield United have given Gary Speed permission to speak to the Welsh FA with regard to the position of international manager, and a further statement is expected to be made on Tuesday,” the statement read.

“Meanwhile, coach John Carver will continue to take the Blades’ training session as normal.”

Speed has taken United to six wins from 18 matches this league campaign, leaving them one point above the relegation zone in the Championship.

United are expected to begin the search for a new manager on Monday in preparation for Speed’s likely move to the Wales managerial post.