Stags' boss Steve Evans has added another signing to his squad with the addition of midfielder Ben Whiteman, who has joined the club on loan from Sheffield United until the end of the season.
The 20-year-old midfielder will join up with his new team-mates for the trip to Blackpool on Monday.Â
Whiteman came up through the youth ranks with Manchester United before being released at the age of 18.Â
He joined Sheffield United upon his release from the Red Devils and made his first team debut in an FA Cup tie against Crewe Alexandra in November 2014.Â
Whiteman was used predominantly in the under 21s’ squad for the remainder of the 2014/15 season but returned to the first team fold when Nigel Adkins replaced Nigel Clough as manager.Â
Under Adkins, the 20-year-old made six League One appearances as the Blades finished the season in 11th position.
The midfielder has played five times this season under new boss Chris Wilder, including the Blades’ 6-0 thrashing of Leyton Orient in the Emirates FA Cup in November.Â
Whiteman has been on the losing side just once this season, in a Checkatrade Trophy defeat Walsall in October.Â
Manager Steve Evans says the addition of the versatile midfielder had offers from a number of League Two clubs and is pleased to have secured his signature.
"Ben Whiteman is a young midfield player who is a box-to-box type [with] great energy. He can play anywhere from the right-side to the left-side, centre-mid, [he] can [also] play right-back.Â
"His versatility has probably been a hindrance at Sheffield United because he’s not been able to nail down a position. I think Chris Wilder arriving and getting some fantastic support, in his own admission, from his board and the quality of player, he’s just not been able to force himself in.Â
"The kid was presented with several options in League Two but I spent a long time on the telephone to him and young Ben will be part of the group [travelling to Blackpool] tomorrow."
