Billy Sharp Returns to Football with AFC Rushden & Diamonds Ahead of FA Cup Match

Former Sheffield United and Doncaster Rovers striker Billy Sharp has made a surprising return from retirement to join Northern Premier League club AFC Rushden & Diamonds. This move comes as the team gears up for their FA Cup match against Burton Albion.

The 40-year-old player, who announced his retirement last month, is stepping in to help the team after midfielder James Clifton received a suspension.

This upcoming match against Burton Albion marks a significant milestone, as it will be Rushden & Diamonds’ first appearance in the first round proper of the FA Cup. If Sharp takes the field, it will also represent the 814th professional match of his extensive career.

The team will travel to face Burton Albion on Saturday at 15:00 GMT. Sharp initially played for Rushden & Diamonds on loan from Sheffield United in 2005, netting nine goals in 16 games. Over his career, he has scored an impressive 290 more goals at the senior level, wrapping up his tenure with Doncaster Rovers this summer after participating in 45 matches and scoring 14 goals last season.