Sun could have joined United two-years ago

New Sheffield United defender Sun Jihai has revealed he could have joined the Blades two-years ago.

The versatile China international joined the club at the end of last season from Manchester City.

"Two years ago my contract ran out at City and I had the chance to sign for Sheffield United, but I missed it," he told BBC Radio Sheffield.

"I have been to this academy many times to see my friends. I have even trained here before. It feels like home."

United manager Kevin Blackwell is confident that Sun will have a big role to play this season.

He is adaptable and can play in either full-back position as well as in midfield and that will give me lots of options Kevin Blackwell

"He needs to get fitter as he has found the running hard so far, but that is understandable because he is a week behind everyone else.

"Jihai has played at the highest level in this country for the last few years and comes with a good pedigree.

"He is adaptable and can play in either full-back position as well as in midfield and that will give me lots of options particularly on the substitutes bench."

Sun will join the Blades squad that leaves this weekend for the club's pre-season tour of Hungary and Holland.