Following his move from Helsingborg in January, Shelton has had to bide his time before finally being allowed to make an impact for United.

The Jamaica international was eventually handed his first start in the most daunting of arenas, with boss Neil Warnock throwing him into the lion's den against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Although the Blades lost the game 2-0, Shelton emerged with a lot of credit and was unlucky not to win a penalty.

Another start followed in last weekend's crucial draw at Charlton and now a full home debut beckons against Watford at Bramall Lane tomorrow.

"I have enjoyed the last two matches very much and I want to thank the coach for giving me my chance," Shelton said.

"The game against Manchester United was a big one for me. I had a job to do and I went out and did it, even though most of the time I was on my own up front.

"I felt I should have had a penalty in that game, but you have to go on the referee's decision.

"I then very much enjoyed the game at Charlton. Now I have to go out there and put in a performance for the team all the time.

"I have to make sure I work as hard as I can and produce the same work-rate as I showed against Manchester United to help move the team forward."

Shelton came within a whisker of scoring against the Addicks, grazing the right-hand post with a first-half diving header.

Although a goal would not go amiss over the closing three matches, personal ambition pales into insignificance when it comes to the team's survival.

United face relegated Watford knowing three points will push them closer to safety, with the Blades currently just two points above the drop zone.

"I'll try my best to score a goal or two, but my aim is to help the team get three points against Watford," added Shelton.

"We need to be positive and try to get all nine points from the last three matches.

"We really need the points and we really need to stay up because it's so important to be in the Premier League."