Sheffield United legend Billy Sharp is celebrating his 35th birthday.
Sixteen-and-a-half years since he made his debut for the Blades, Sharp remains as important as ever to his boyhood club.
This week the skipper scored the winner in a vital 2-1 victory over fellow Premier League strugglers West Bromwich Albion.
It was Sharp’s 110th goal for the South Yorkshire side in his third spell at Bramall Lane.
While surrounded by expensive strikers more than 10 years his junior in Rhian Brewster, Oli McBurnie and Lys Mousset, the United captain continues to prove he is a key player.
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Sharp’s importance doesn’t go unnoticed, either, with owner Prince Abdullah praising the forward following the win against West Brom.
“I think every forward in the world needs a bit of Billy Sharp in him,” the Saudi Prince told talkSPORT.
“He’s amazing and he’s stood the test of time.”
Tributes to Billy Sharp on his birthday
Sharp’s former Blades teammate, Richard Stearman – who now plays for Huddersfield Town – was among those wishing the attacker well.
As did many fans, who appreciate what Sharp has done for the club.
There was even a cheeky nod to the footballing superstars whom Sharp shares a birthday with. Cristiano Ronaldo is 36 today, while Neymar is 29.
What next for Sharp?
There were recent rumours Sharp could be leaving the Blades, with Derby County making an enquiry.
However, that was quickly knocked back and understandably so. Sharp is under contract until 2022 and remains a key asset.
He has four goals in 12 appearances in all competitions this season, with just five of those being starts.
Only David McGoldrick has scored more for United than Sharp in 2020/21, with experience proving crucial as they seek to avoid relegation.
Ahead of hosting Chelsea on Sunday, the Blades are bottom of the table and 11 points from safety.
Yet they have enjoyed a resurgence of form in recent times, winning five of their last seven in all competitions. Sharp has scored the winner in three of those games.
