During the 1996–97 English football season, Sheffield United competed in the Football League First Division. Season summary In the 1996–97 season, Howard Kendall's first full season in charge, the Blades finished fifth in Division One to qualify for the play-offs. In the play-off final at Wembley, the Blades lost to a last minute goal from David Hopkin and Crystal Palace earned the final promotion spot to the Premier League. In June 1997, Kendall left the club by mutual consent to return to Everton for a third spell as manager. Players First-team squad Final league table Matches Source: Key Division One Playoffs FA Cup League Cup Steel City Cup Friendlies References Notes Sheffield United F.C. seasons Sheffield United