Sheffield United: Skipper Billy Sharp reveals how long he expects to continue playing for ... and his unusual plans when Bramall Lane career does come to an end

He has written his name into the Sheffield United history books, after helping lift them out of League One and into the Premier League within three seasons.
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And skipper Billy Sharp admits he has no plans to slow down just yet, after getting a first real chance in the top-flight well into his 34th year.

Sharp scored his first Premier League goal, in just his third appearance, on the opening day at Bournemouth, but was back on the bench as an unused sub as his side beat Crystal Palace on Sunday.

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And, speaking on Kitlocker’s ‘Chatting Kit’ podcast, Sharp revealed his plans to snub a move down the leagues when his United career does eventually end … in favour of playing over-35s football with his mates.

“I’ve got a contract for this year and next, which’ll take me to 35,” Sharp said.

“I feel great and if I can do well this season, I’ll be knocking on the gaffer’s door looking for an extension!

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“To get two years is great for me and my family because there’s security there, and I can concentrate on being a professional footballer in the Premier League. Hopefully I’ve got another two years of that, and then we’ll see what happens after that.”

Sheffield United's Billy Sharp (right) celebrates scoring in the Blades' first match back in the Premier LeagueSheffield United's Billy Sharp (right) celebrates scoring in the Blades' first match back in the Premier League
Sheffield United's Billy Sharp (right) celebrates scoring in the Blades' first match back in the Premier League

This summer, after helping United to automatic promotion to the Premier League, Sharp returned to his roots to turn out once again for his old team, Middlewood Rovers, in a fundraising match.

“I hope to go on and on,” he insisted, “but if there’s a choice between dropping down and playing with my mates, I’d play with my mates in the over-35s league.

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“They’ve been asking about it and we’ve trained together. Some of them are good players, if they lost a bit of timber!

“Maybe I’ll catch them up on that front when I’ve finished playing. But whenever that is, I want to give it one season with them.

“I think it’d be a right laugh, and they’re looking forward to it as well. I’ve told them I can see myself doing it, so I can’t really let them down now!”

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