Flip-flops and mobiles are banned for the Blades, as Blackwell signs up to Capello's rules

The Blades boss is keen to distinguish himself from the previous failed regime of Bryan Robson, and top of the banned list are wearing flip-flops in the showers and using mobile phones in public and when travelling from hotels to grounds.

And it seems that his players are more than happy to feel the new manager's firm hand, to judge from striker Jon Stead's reaction.

Stead claims "There has been a lift" since Robson's exit just under a fortnight ago.

Tonight's FA Cup fifth-round replay at Middlesbrough certainly holds no fears, with the Blades squad quickly warming to Blackwell and his methods.

Stead admits he has been given the odd ear-bashing on the training ground. "The new gaffer is completely different to the old gaffer," says Stead.

"It's been sharp, high-tempo stuff, and he is very animated with the way he puts his ideas across.

"He is always talking to you. I've already been into his office four times, although I don't know if that's a good or a bad thing!

"He has also introduced fines for minor indiscretions. We get hit in the pocket if we wear flip-flops in the showers and also if we use our mobiles on the coach.

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"But he communicates well, which helps because you know exactly what he wants from you, and what needs putting right when you do the wrong things.

"There are a lot of discussions which take place now, which didn't really happen before.

"Sometimes when I felt I had done the wrong thing but nothing was said, it left me thinking, 'Was it right or not?' There was a bit of confusion.

"Now when you do something wrong you know about it, and you don't do it again, although to be honest I don't mind being told off.

"In my career, I've never minded somebody having a real go because it brings the best out of me.

"I've already had a few telling-offs from the gaffer so far, and I'm sure it will continue."

Although Blackwell has only been in charge for two matches, Stead feels he is getting the team playing to their strengths, unlike former Boro boss Robson.

"With the previous gaffer, he knew we could play, but we struggled to do it at certain places and in the way he wanted us," added the 24-year-old.

"The gaffer now is very direct. It's sometimes not the prettiest football to watch, but it will start getting us results, which is what we need.

"We've had a lot of draws, which we need to turn into wins, but there is definitely a platform there with all the changes that have been made for us to put a decent run together."

Stead, who has been operating in a new right-wing role following Blackwell's appointment, is also confident the Blades can claim a third Premier League scalp in the FA Cup this season.

After beating Bolton and Manchester City in previous rounds, Stead said: "The Cup is something for us to go for. It is definitely a priority for us.

"When you do look ahead, the sixth round (at home to Cardiff) is a winnable tie and a chance for us to enjoy a great day out at Wembley."

Winger Lee Martin and former Boro defender Ugo Ehiogu are both fit after recovering from rib and hamstring injuries.

David Cotterill, on loan from Wigan, is the only absentee as he is cup-tied.