Sheffield United owner Kevin McCabe believes The Jessica Ennis Stand will be a fitting tribute to the 26-year-old, who put on a truly outstanding performance at the London  Games.

Sheffield-born Ennis, who like the rest of her family supports United, secured victory in the very first event, the 100 metre hurdles, through to her 800m triumph at the event's end.

"She is probably Sheffield's biggest ever star," said McCabe.

"She's uplifted everyone and brought pride to the city.

"Jessica and her family are Unitedites and after discussions with them we all agreed that renaming the Bramall Lane stand after her would provide an additional sporting legacy from the London Games."

McCabe said it would be a permanent reminder that will act "as an inspiration to youngsters".

Sheffield United have renamed one of their stands in honour of the city's Olympic heptathlon gold medallist Jessica Ennis


The stand will be officially unveiled at the club's home match with Bournemouth today.

Ennis, who will be represented by her sister Carmel at the match, said: "It is wonderful and totally unexpected to have further recognition from within Sheffield and from the football club.

"I never expected when I started out in athletics in Sheffield all those years ago that I would have a football stand at Sheffield United named after me.

"I can't be at the match on Saturday but look forward to coming down on a match day very soon when I can see for myself how the stand looks as well as being able to meet supporters."

Ennis received a rapturous welcome when she returned to the city last month after her Olympic triumph, and was given the Freedom of the City and a new plaque at the city's Walk of Fame.

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