Albion misfit Chris O’Grady has hinted at wanting to stay at Sheffield United – for good.

The former Barnsley and Sheffield Wednesday striker has moved his family back up to Yorkshire with him for his loan spell with the League One club until the end of January.

Nottingham-born O’Grady, who came south to the Seagulls in July, admitted: “It’s been difficult. We’ve been in about four different temporary homes. That’s the side of things people often don’t see and it can make things difficult.

“The family have come back up and they’ve all settled straight away. That makes it much easier for me as well, knowing that they’re happy. It’s an area we know well so there aren’t going to be any problems there.”

O’Grady has only started five Championship games for Albion under Sami Hyypia. Blades boss Nigel Clough is a big admirer, having tried to sign him in the summer.

“The only thing you ever want to do is play,” O’Grady said. “That goes for whatever level you are at. There’s nothing worse than working hard all week and then watching from the stands.

“I’ve always played my best football for managers who believe in me and put their trust in me. It’s nice to be wanted and the manager here (Clough) has definitely done that. That feels good rather than being someone who just ticks boxes. I aim to repay his faith by playing well.

“I know there’s been interest in me here for a while. It looked as if it might drag on, possibly beyond the end of the window, which wouldn’t have been ideal. But then they brought someone in (Darren Bent) and that meant I could go out.

“I feel proud to have represented both clubs in the (Sheffield) city. It’s a special place and not just to play your football. It would be special to help Sheffield United get promotion.”

O'Grady limped off last night after just 22 minutes of his debut for Sheffield United in a 1-0 defeat at home to MK Dons.