Football: Heath takes over at Blades

ADRIAN HEATH has signed a three-year contract as the new manager of Sheffield United. The former Everton and Aston Villa striker replaces Steve Bruce, who left Bramall Lane to take over at Huddersfield Town.

The 38-year-old Heath returns to the Blades where he spent a short spell as assistant to Howard Kendall before leaving to take charge of Burnley in March 1996. Since then he has had another spell under Kendall at Everton and last season guided Sunderland's reserve team to the Pontins League championship.

Heath is fully aware of the serious financial problems at Bramall Lane. "I go into this with my eyes open. I am under no illusions about the financial position of the club," he said. "I have spoken to Steve Bruce and he has given the club a good reference but pointed out that there are one or two things that need sorting out."

Heath's first job will be to sort out the situation regarding Lee Morris, with Derby County lining up a pounds 2.5m bid for the England Under-21 winger.

Another First Division club cleared up their managerial position yesterday when Colin Lee finally agreed a two-year contract with Wolves.

On the transfer front, Wolves have had talks with Scott Sellars, the veteran midfielder released by Bolton. The Molineux side are also interested in Bristol City's pounds 2.5m-rated forward, Ade Akinbiyi.

Neil Baker, Crewe's assistant manager, has emerged as a leading candidate for the Stoke City managership vacated by Brian Little.