Paul Heckingbottom's key message to Sheffield United trio Max Lowe, Tommy Doyle and James McAtee

The likes of Iliman Ndiaye, Wes Fotheringham and James McAtee were all feted for their part in the Blades' latest triumph, a 3-1 success over Coventry City on an afternoon of milestones elsewhere.

Tommy Doyle, on loan from Manchester City like McAtee, scored his first goal in United colours as did loan defender Ciaran Clark.

The impact of Max Lowe, who set up Doyle's goal on his first appearance since September 4, was also not lost upon Paul Heckingbottom either.

The Blades chief, who could welcome back Oli McBurnie at Blackpool on Thursday, said: "I was pleased to have him (Lowe) back.

"He's been fit and performing really well in training, but Enda (Stevens) has been performing well.

"We just thought the time was right to give Max a start. We all know what form he was in at the start of the season. If I don't then give him the game time, then he won't get back to those levels.

"It's a nice position to be in and we've obviously got Jayden (Bogle) and George (Baldock) on the other side as well. That's four good players and that's really important as it's the first time we have had it this season. I intend to make the most of it."

The contributions of loanees Doyle and McAtee also provided a positive talking point.

Heckingbottom added: "Tommy has really been knocking on the door to scoring.

"I remember speaking to him before he came in about how we play and the timing of his runs into the box. Game on game, he was getting better.

“We couldn't believe he was not scoring. But if you keep getting in those positions, it's only a matter of time.

"Everyone can see why we tried to get him (McAtee) here. He's got big moments in him and real quality with the ball. He's really enjoying the challenge of the Championship.

"He comes on in cameos in the Premier League or Champions League football or there’s under-21s football. You could not get further away in the Championship, especially this year when a lot more is let go (by referees).

"He will be a much better player for it."