Kevin Blackwell believes Sheffield United are fast-tracking to the top - thanks to some go-karting sessions.

Blackwell has landed the Coca-Cola Championship Manager of the Month Award for March following an impressive run of four wins and two draws.

Victories over promotion rivals Birmingham City and Cardiff City have seen them close the gap on second place to six points with a game in hand.

Blackwell treated his squad to a warm-weather trip to Malta last month and believes the go-karting has helped them hit top gear when it matters most.

He said: "The award is for the whole club and especially the players, who have been tremendous. Not just recently, but since I took over last season.

"We went to Malta for a break and I told them it was their time to rest and relax.

"So what do they decide to do? Get on the race track and start go-karting!

"Some played golf, but it was good to get away, have a change of scene and spend some quality time together.

"They let their hair down and enjoyed themselves. They deserved it, too, but all the talk was about the season and if we can catch Birmingham.

"These players have been together for a while. There's a strong respect and desire to succeed and they are a great set of lads.

"There's not one bad egg in the whole group, which certainly makes my job as manager much easier.

"They want to win. The go-kart racing proved that. I trust them completely. They didn't go out getting drunk, and it's important to have experience and maturity in a side that is going for promotion.

"I'm delighted to get the award, but I'd much rather win it at the end of April instead and, hopefully, I will."

For all the latest news on Sheffield United please click here