By Paul Holland
April 9 2002

Sean Bean has agreed to join the board of his beloved Sheffield United. The actor is a lifelong United fan and sports a tattoo on his left shoulder with the words '100 per cent Blade'.

The move has been on the cards for a considerable period of time, but has now been ratified following a meeting in London with a high-powered United official.

Acting chairman Kevin McCabe said: "Sean is excited with our plans for the future of the club.

"We are delighted that another true Blade has joined the board of Sheffield United."