A number of Sheffield United men’s and women’s players made a welcome visit to the Palliative Care Unit at the Northern General Hospital lifting spirits and providing a much needed boost.

Oli McBurnie, Benie Traoré, Auston Trusty, Wes Foderingham, Ben Osborn, Matt Duke, Molly Graham and Tamara Wilcock were joined by Blades legend Tony Currie to help spread some festive cheer.

Organised by Sheffield Hospitals Charity the players met with patients, their families and staff. They gave out gifts across the unit, signed autographs and spent time making hand prints which will be made into a piece of artwork for the ward.

The players were treated to Christmas carols performed by the Sheffield Cancer Choir and given a tour by Ward Manager Rachel Bond.

One patient who is just 28 years old has a wish to be buried in a Sheffield United shirt, the players came together to sign a shirt and present her with some gifts. Children of another patient were given a Sheffield United remote controlled car, Blades cuddly toys and signed memorabilia.

Dave McCarthy, Head of Operations for Sheffield United FC said: ‘’It was great to be able to send players from both our men’s and women’s squads out to visit the local hospital and hospices, who are all nominated charities of the Blades. The players enjoyed meeting patients, their families, staff, and volunteers, having photos taken with them, spending time talking football and finding out about the work each organisation undertakes.”

Beth Crackles, Chief Executive Officer of Sheffield Hospitals Charity added: “The Winter months are a really tough time for the NHS. Sheffield Hospitals Charity gives over two million pounds to support our hospitals each year. But this visit was all about bringing some Christmas joy. It was great to have the team spending so much time on the unit giving a much-needed boost to patients and staff.”