By Paul Holland
July 19 2002

Sheffield United boss Neil Warnock has issued an emotional rallying cry to the Bramall Lane fans as his side gear up for their assault on the First Division: "You can make the difference between success and failure." But Warnock, a life-long Blade, reckons his new-look side will give them plenty to shout about.

He said: "They're our 12th man at home and they've given us magnificent backing away.

"In a competition this close you want to take every advantage you can get. If the fans give us the sort of back-up they did last year then it can only be good for us."

Despite drafting in four new players over the summer, Warnock refuses to be drawn on United's chances next season, but privately he is confident they are equipped to cause more than their fair share of upsets.

Laurens Ten Heuvel, Steve Yates, Iffy Onuora and Stuart McCall have all been signed, despite cash-flow problems caused by the collapse of ITV Digital and compounded by a decision by shareholders to veto a £14m refinancing package with the Bank of Scotland.

Warnock, who is also poised to open talks about extending his contract, said: "We've got to give them something to believe in and I think we can do it."

Meanwhile Australian triallist Jason Dimozantos' chances of winning a permanent contract have received a bitter blow. The big centre-half could be out for the remainder of his stay after damaging ankle ligaments during the reserve team's 3-2 win over Stavley.

But United could offer him the chance to return later .