Sheffield United return a 'distinct possibility' for ex-Leeds United and Doncaster Rovers marksman Billy Sharp
Sheffield United return a 'distinct possibility' for ex-Leeds United and Doncaster Rovers man Billy Sharp
A move into coaching with Sheffield United is a distinct possibility for free agent Billy Sharp, according to a report.
The 40-year-old is among the most revered marksmen in EFL history and is back on the market after leaving League One outfit Doncaster Rovers.
He signed off in typical Sharp fashion, netting a hat-trick on the final day of the regular season as Doncaster swept Peterborough United aside. The treble took his career goals tally to 299, leaving the possibility of reaching 300 next season dangling.
Sharp has not committed to retiring from playing and has even hinted he does not yet want to hang up his boots.
Billy Sharp claim emerges
However, according to The Star, there is a chance Sharp begins his coaching journey at the club he is most commonly associated with.
It has been claimed talks with Sheffield United over the possibility were held earlier in the season, when Sharp was still on Doncaster’s books.
Sharp would arguably be a shrewd addition to Chris Wilder’s coaching team and the move would certainly have the approval of the Bramall Lane faithful. The forward made 377 appearances across three spells with the Blades, scoring 129 goals.
Billy Sharp’s stance on future
After it was confirmed he would be leaving Doncaster, Sharp told BBC Radio Sheffield: "Doncaster means a lot to me. They looked after me when I was going through tough times in my personal life. When I went back two years ago I wanted to achieve something with them because that club means a lot to me. It's my second home.
"I've had two amazing years and to get promoted last year was great, and with an amazing set of lads. The gaffer's been brilliant with me. I've enjoyed it. I've got a good relationship with Grant and he'll bring players in next year and I won't be one of them.
“I can play on another year but I'm not quite sure what I'll do. I'm open to opportunities, whether that's another club as a player or whatever. I'll just see. I've only been a free agent once and I ended up going to LA Galaxy. I'll just see what opportunities I can get. It's exciting.
"I'm not saying I won't carry on. I'm leaving that wide open. I've been injured for five weeks and have worked hard to get back. Touch wood nothing happens the next few days and I'll be playing at the weekend. I'll look to play the next few games and then have a think in the summer what I'm going to do."
A familiar face across Yorkshire, Sharp has also represented Leeds United and Hull City, as well as the likes of Southampton, Nottingham Forest and Scunthorpe United.