Hendrie keen on Blades switch

Jun 19 2007 By Bill Howell, Birmingham Mail

LEE Hendrie has admitted he would relish the prospect of playing for Bryan Robson at Sheffield United.

The former Baggies boss is believed to be keen to snap up Hendrie on a Bosman after his release after 13 years at Villa Park.

Hendrie has received a degree of interest from eight clubs, including Scottish giants Rangers, newly-promoted Derby, Premiership duo Wigan and Bolton, and Championship trio Leicester, Stoke City and Coventry.

He will attempt to use the next couple of weeks to determine the strength of that interest via his agent but Robson's apparent keenness to take him to Bramall Lane certainly appeals.

United have, in fact, been linked with Hendrie for some time and he is flattered.

Hendrie said: "I know Sheffield United have made a few enquiries, but I am not sure how strong their interest is.

"I have heard a lot about Bryan Robson and the fact that he is a players' manager. He is a legend in the game and to play for someone like that would be exciting."

Hendrie is growing increasingly agitated by the slow market but is already building up his fitness.

He added: "A lot of people are away. It is worrying really because I just don't know where I stand.

"There is nothing really happening but I am looking forward to wherever I go. I am chomping at the bit. I just want it to happen quickly now so that I can start focusing on football again.

"I have started my pre-season already, training every day, because I want to go somewhere firing on all cylinders.

"It is going to be a big move wherever I go. I want to start off with a bang at my new club.

"I am 100 per cent positive in myself. I wish I was 21 again but I will certainly give it a hell of a lot to my new club."

Hendrie's testimonial dinner - at the Holte Suite - is just over a fortnight away on Wednesday, July 4.

Ron Atkinson, John Gregory and Martin O'Neill will be joined by ex-England boss Sir Bobby Robson and 1966 World Cup hero Sir Geoff Hurst and will generate cash for the Acorns Children's Hospice.

For tickets and more information visit www.vultd.co.uk, email info@vultd.co.uk or call 0871 8715300.