United manager Simon Grayson is relishing the prospect of a step up in pre-season opposition with Premier League Blackburn Rovers the visitors to Elland Road on Saturday (3pm).

So far, United have drawn with York City, Shelbourne, and were victorious against Irish League champions Glentoran last Saturday. 

On Tuesday, Grayson split his squad and while one Leeds XI drew 1-1 at Grimsby the other went down 2-1 to non-league Wealdstone.

"They were both difficult work-outs which is what you are looking for," said the boss. 

"The reports I've had from Wealdstone are that the players showed a good attitude, worked hard, but couldn't finish chances off.

"At Grimsby, as I said afterwards, the first half wasn't acceptable but we got a response in the second.

"We're all working towards August 8 though and we're really looking forward to Blackburn game now."

The boss has dismissed final results as meaningless and says there are more important aspects to pre-season than recording a string of victories.

"Getting that actual match fitness and sharpness is important because they have to be fit and strong and show the quality we want.," he explained.

"It is about how you are playing, developing partnerships and the shape of squad.

"Everyone loves to win games, but the season is when it matters.

"If you get a mixed bag of results no one gets high expectations, if you lose them all no one should be disappointed, and if you win them all no one should get carried away.

"Somewhere in the middle of all that suits me. As long as we are ready for August 8 that'll do me.

"We've used the games so far to build up to three big games now against Blackburn, Newcastle and Burnley.

"These are great games, and the teams we are playing have some great individual players.

"If we want to get back to the level we want we have to perform against these teams."

Tickets for the Blackburn game are priced at £10 adults/£5 concessions and fans are asked to buy in advance to avoid congestion on the day of the game.