Chris Wilder has warned his Sheffield United players that he does not have any interest in 'extending and rewarding' contracts until they snap from their post-restart slump.
The Blades have taken one point from three matches and are yet to score since returning to action, although a Hawk-Eye malfunction did rob them of a legitimate goal in their draw at Aston Villa.
Striker Billy Sharp says the players have been 'devastated' with the manner of their recent displays and admits they have 'not competed'.
Wilder has broken with his traditional preparation for Sunday's FA Cup quarter-final tie at home to Arsenal by giving his players some time away from the training ground.