He insists he holds no grudges against the club's fan base - and hope they will respect his return as an old pro in the England v Germany "Legends" match for charity.

He hopes in the coming season to see United finish off the job he'd hope to have compeleted in his own nine month stint there; a successful return to the top flight.

Speaking to The Star he said: "I'd love to see Sheffield United in the Premiership, and I think once they get there they could stay for years."

The former England and Manchester United captain feels that less than a year at the Lane was insufficient time to make changes he felt necessary - and that his removal from office resulted from pressure from disgruntled supporters.

"The fans weren't happy because they felt the squad was capable of getting promoted straight away and when that didn't happen they became unsettled.

"I have no regrets as there wasn't anything else I could do. I didn't have the funds to go and buy people but those I did manage to bring in like James Beattie, Gary Speed and Gary Naysmith were good players. "

Others like Phil Jagielka and Kazim Richards were leaving before I had a chance to have a say.

"But we have all moved on now and I genuinely hope Sheffield United can achieve promotion."

The Bramall Lane team he left behind in February remains close to his heart.

As does the late Derek Dooley, whose name is adopted on to a trophy that the Legends teams will contest on August 7.

"Derek was a fantastic bloke, everybody says that about him, but it was true, a sheer gentleman.

"For someone to have been part of Wednesday and United in the way he was, and how people felt about him, shows what sort of brilliant person he was."

While Robson wishes dearly he'd have had a "better rapport" with Blades fans, he said his relationship with the backroom staff was exceptional and he described the McCabe family as a "different class."

Robson, 51,admitted he has an eye on returning to management.

"I have been given an ambassador's role at Manchester United and we'll see how that goes, but I wouldn't rule out management in the future" he said.

"I had what I considered to be seven great years at Middlesbrough working with top players and that's the type of thing I enjoy.

"But for the time being I am looking forward to the Legends game and hope the fans at Bramall Lane are ok with me. Although things didn't turn out the way I'd hope some of them realise that you sometimes need more time than you are given for that to happen.

"Hopefully they will see me going back as an old player, not as a manager!"

For England v Germany tickets call 0871 222 1889.

Do you agree with Robson's verdict? Post your comments below.

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