Former Premier League midfielder Carlton Palmer has told The Transfer Tavern in an exclusive interview that he would be very surprised if Paul Heckingbottom landed the Sheffield United job full-time.

Heckingbottom is currently on a five-man shortlist of managers to replace Chris Wilder following his departure from Bramall Lane back in March.

The 43-year-old has been filling in on a caretaker basis but now looks to be in contention for the role permanently.

Having stepped in after Wilder's exit, Palmer believes it is only fair for him to be interviewed, but the ex-Sheffield Wednesday player admitted he would be surprised if Heckingbottom ended up as Wilder's permanent successor.

Speaking exclusively to TT about Sheffield United's search for a new manager, Palmer said:

"I'd be very surprised if Paul's in the front running for that job, very surprised. But, you know, you put him in until the end of the season, I think it's only fair to give him an interview for the job.

"But the results and the performances, really, for me, would not warrant him getting the job full-time."

It has also recently emerged, via The Sun, that United have made an approach for Slavisa Jokanovic - who could be a much safer bet for the club.

The Serbian has won promotion to the Premier League before, taking both Fulham and Watford from the Championship to English football's top flight.