Billy Sharp retires at 40 after 22‑year career and 299 goals
October 11, 2026 13:40
Sharp confirmed his decision to Sky Sports, saying: "I'm going to hang my boots up. I've given it a good ride. I've got a long way, got to 40." He had been a free agent after leaving Doncaster Rovers at the end of last season, finishing with a hat‑trick against Peterborough in his final appearance.
WHAT HAPPENED
Sharp's professional career included spells with Southampton, Nottingham Forest, Leeds United, Hull City, Scunthorpe United, Reading, Doncaster Rovers and Rushden & Diamonds, plus a brief stint with LA Galaxy in 2023. A boyhood Blades supporter, he made his Championship debut for Sheffield United off the bench against Watford in November 2004 and went on to score 129 goals for the club across three spells, serving as club captain.
KEY CONTEXT
Sharp was an influential figure in three promotion-winning campaigns with Sheffield United: League One in 2017 and Championship promotions in 2019 and 2023. He was also part of the Southampton side promoted to the Premier League in 2012 and scored a late winner for Doncaster against Bradford City to secure promotion to League One in 2025. Across his career he recorded EFL hat‑tricks in his teens, 20s, 30s and 40s; a potential 300th career goal was ruled out for offside in his final match.
WHAT'S NEXT
Sharp has joined Baller League team N5, led by former Arsenal and Germany goalkeeper Jens Lehmann, to play six‑a‑side football. He has also completed his coaching badges and has indicated an interest in management.