For a man who boasts a glittering career that spans more than 20 years, it is not surprising that Teddy Sheringham can recall most of his opening day matches with genuine affection.

Throughout his time as a professional footballer, Colchester United's star striker has carved a reputation for finding the net on a regular basis for all of his six league clubs.

And more often than not, when it has come to scoring goals, he has been out of the blocks quicker than a leading sprinter.

Perhaps Sheringham's uncanny habit of scoring on the first day of the season will prove to be a lucky omen for the U's at Bramall Lane tomorrow.

Memorably, he struck the only goal for Nottingham Forest against Liverpool in the first Premier League match to be screened live on Sky Television, in 1992.

And he was also on target on the opening day for Tottenham Hotspur in the three seasons that followed.

First day goals also followed for Sheringham while representing Manchester United in 1998, Portsmouth in 2003 and West Ham United in 2005.

So the U's might be forgiven for hoping that their former England international will come up trumps again for them at Sheffield United, having declared himself available following a calf injury.

The 41-year-old is clearly relishing the opportunity to prolong his long career at Layer Road.

But he is well aware of how difficult a proposition the Coca-Cola Championship will be.

He said: "It's going to be a tough season and we know that but if we get off to a good start, then who knows?

"The Championship is a competition where you have to compete. It's a tough division and if you don't compete then you get left behind.

"You have to compete every time and hopefully the quality we have got will come through."