The new Blades boss has only been in the job at Bramall Lane for four days but he sees no reason why United cannot return to the top flight.

The prospects of that happening this season are remote as United are 12 points behind the play-off places with only 14 matches remaining.

But if Blackwell can steer the Blades towards respectability by the middle of May, a new long-term deal should be his beyond the one handed to him until the end of the season.

That would then give him the platform to mount a promotion push next season and return the club to the top flight, because the foundations within the squad already appear to be in place.

Blackwell, who left United just under four years ago after working under Neil Warnock for several seasons, was given a fine reception by the fans ahead of yesterday's goalless FA Cup fifth-round draw with Middlesbrough.

That was crucial to Blackwell, who said: "It's really important that when you go somewhere you are wanted. That really helps.

"The fans here know what I'm about, what to expect from me, and I know what I have to try and give them.

"Against Middlesbrough they saw a glimpse of a hard-working Blades side. We are a working men's club.

"We're a city that has a tradition, and that is we work hard and we give no favours, and that was the side we had out there.

"That was the kind of side, combined with its ethics, that took the club into the Premier League.

"If it was good enough last time then it has to be good enough again.

"When you look around everybody realises Bramall Lane is a terrific stadium, while the club has a good fan base, the infrastructure is in place and there is a real dynamic chairman (Kevin McCabe).

"This is a club that wants to go somewhere, and if you're not happy to be here then there aren't many places you would be happy at."

Blackwell was more than happy with the performance of his players, especially as he knows that with the squad at hand he can be more positive in his approach.

"I'm really confident with the set of players I have here, and if you are confident with them then why not have a go at people?" insisted Blackwell.

"If we had sat back and asked Middlesbrough to press us and allow their players like Mido, (Afonso) Alves and (Jeremie) Aliadiere to play, then with their quality they would have hurt us.

"But we didn't allow them to do things because I have good players and I want to get at teams, so if you have ability and belief in your team, then have a go."

Blackwell concedes the last few days have "been a whirlwind", but appreciating "there will be plenty more to come that's for sure".

The speed of his appointment after Bryan Robson refused a director of football role meant he was effectively working unpaid against Boro as he has yet to agree terms on any deal.

But that is of little concern as he added: "I'll talk to Terry Robinson (club chairman) today or tomorrow.

"But I'm not overly worried about that sort of thing. It will be sorted, so why worry?"