Former Premier League striker announces retirement – months after hat-trick in final match

Billy Sharp has announced his retirement from football at the age of 40. Sharp, who played 43 Premier League games throughout his career, departs the sport as the Championship ‘s all time top scorer. Banging in 130 second-tier goals, Sharp was a fan favourite for whoever he played for during his 22-year career. His journey started at hometown club Sheffield United in 2004, with Sharp going on to play 814 games for ten different teams – scoring a whopping 299 goals.