Billy Sharp: A Modern EFL Legend
In an emotional farewell at the end of the 2022/23 season, Sheffield United talisman and EFL legend Billy Sharp announced he will not be remaining at Bramall Lane for the upcoming Premier League season.
The Blades hero will be leaving the club on a high, waving goodbye to his boyhood club after achieving a second promotion to the Premier League in five years.
Sharp’s Legendary Status
As it stands, the 37-year-old is the EFL Championship’s top goalscorer of all time with 130 league goals.
Sharp has been a prolific striker for many years, proving at a number of Championship clubs that his poaching instincts are a viable asset to any team.
The forward has provided more than just goals however, in recent years, the lifelong Blade has immaculately captained his team to heights never before seen at Bramall Lane.
Champions of League One, two Premier League promotions, a 9th place finish in the 2019/20 Premier League season and an FA Cup semi-final will define Sharp’s legacy as Blades captain.
What Next?
Despite Sheffield United boss Paul Heckingbottom wanting to keep Sharp at the club for another 12 months, the board decided it was time for the player to move on.
Since this announcement, various clubs have registered their interest in the striker. Hull City, Rotherham United, Coventry City and even Derby County have been rumoured to be looking at Sharp as a potential addition to their respective teams.
It has been made clear that Sharp has settled in the city of Sheffield, and at this point in his career he is not looking to be relocating his family, something to consider for the clubs who have registered interest in the veteran striker.
What Does This Mean For Sheffield United?
For the Blades, this a serious blow, both tactically and emotionally.
As previously stated, Sharp has been an outstanding servant of the club in recent years and his background as a local Sheffield lad and Sheffield United supporter really connected him to the fan base.
His cult hero status and popularity in the stands will seriously be missed in Sheffield United’s upcoming Premier League season, where the Bramall Lane atmosphere will be integral to the success of the team.
In addition to this, Sharp’s constant goal threat and footballing experience will be missed this season as the Blades now rely on the younger generation for goals.
