Championship record goalscorer Billy Sharp announces retirement

Billy Sharp, the all-time leading goalscorer in the English Championship, has confirmed his retirement from professional football at the age of 40. The striker, who spent three separate spells at his boyhood club Sheffield United, concluded a remarkable 22-year career that spanned numerous clubs, including Southampton, Leeds United, and Nottingham Forest.

A career to remember

"I'm going to hang my boots up. I've given it a good ride. I've got a long way, got to 40."

Billy Sharp

Sharp’s final professional appearance saw him sign off in style with a hat-trick for Doncaster Rovers against Peterborough. This achievement meant the veteran forward managed to score EFL hat-tricks in four different decades, further cementing his legacy as one of the most consistent strikers in the lower leagues. He finished his career with 299 professional goals.

Throughout his time at Bramall Lane, Sharp became an icon, netting 129 goals and captaining the side to three separate promotions. While he is now moving into the Baller League to play six-a-side football, he has also completed his coaching badges and is considering a future in management.

"I wanted to go out with a bang and luckily for me, I got a hat-trick in my last appearance."

Billy Sharp