The reported departure of Alan Knill from Sheffield United has ignited wild speculation, in the absence of confirmation, denial or explanation from the club. Something which again raises concerns regarding United's abysmal lack of a communication strategy. Slence from the management, including co-chairmen Steven Rosen and Helmi El Tooke, and chief executive Stephen Bettis, underscores a troubling lack of transparency that is typical of how the club is being run under the American ownership of COH Sport..

Summary:

• The abrupt departure of Alan Knill from Sheffield United has sparked considerable speculation and uncertainty.
• United's management has exhibited a total lack of communication regarding Knill's situation.
• The potential influence of coaching staff reshuffles may have contributed to Knill's decision to leave, if, indeed, he has left.
• Silence from club officials continues to raise questions about their transparency and accountability.
• The relationship between manager Chris Wilder and Knill, his long-standing No2, is one of mutual respect and loyalty.
• Failure to address the situation publicly has done nothing to help repair a broken relationship between the clubs owners and United supporters following the self-destruction of the season just gone.