Sheffield United are said to be in "a race against time" in order to have Bramall Lane ready for the start of the new Premier League season.

Chris Wilder's side are about to play their first season in the top flight for 12 years after being promoted as Championship runners-up last term.

During their time in the wilderness, a number of new stadium rules have been introduced for Premier League sides and, according to the Daily Mail, the Blades are working flat out to make sure their ground is compliant before competitive action begins.

The newspaper says that Bramall Lane is undergoing "substantial" renovation works, including a complete refit of the media facilities to cope with increased demand from journalists.

"It has been a big headache. Because it has been so long since the club was relegated, things have moved on and there is a substantial amount of work to be done," a source told the publication. "When they were drawn to play the first game away there were sighs of relief!"

United's first game at Bramall Lane will be against Crystal Palace on August 17, while all four of the club's pre-season friendlies have been scheduled at away venues.