James Beattie has been left out of Sheffield United's squad for the pre-season tour in Europe.

The Blades striker is struggling with a calf strain and missed out on training last week.

United manager Kevin Blackwell said: "The niggling calf problem, which has caused him a bit of discomfort in previous pre-season campaigns, has forced him to miss a week's training, so we've left him back at the ranch to catch up."

The Blades are scheduled to play three matches during their mini tour, starting with a clash with Ferencvaros in Budapest, then KVK Tienen in Belgium and against Dutch side Helmond Sport.