Luton

The government's decision to back East West Rail and Luton Airport's expansion plans were positive factors, the firm said.

Mr Thompson was not worried when it was pointed out East West Rail was not expected to be completed until the 2030s - and Luton Airport's annual passenger target of 32 million was set for 2043.

"Already London Luton Airport is drawing 18 million passengers a year. So the recent news about their planning approval for the expansion is just an extra bonus for us as well."

It estimates that 80% of those jobs will come from Bedford, central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes.

The German boss was then criticised by some after saying the point from the 1-1 draw at lowly Luton in the next game was a good result but it proved to be the case as the Blades totally lost their way with three successive defeats and the Whites went from third back to first and five points clear of Chris Wilder's men in third with three games to play.