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EFL cult hero performs shock retirement U-turn as he joins new club just WEEKS after hanging up boots live on Sky Sports

EFL cult hero Billy Sharp has sensationally returned to football just weeks after announcing his retirement. Sharp has re-signed for former club Rushden and Diamonds, who he played for back in 2005. It comes after the 40-year-old announced his retirement…

By James Graham · The Sun

Published: Sunday, 1 November 2026 at 2:57 PM

Key Things to Know

Billy Sharp has come out of retirement to sign for eighth-tier club AFC Rushden & Diamonds.
Sharp previously announced his retirement live on Sky Sports just weeks ago.
The 40-year-old striker is joining on a short-term basis for an FA Cup tie against Burton Albion.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Billy Sharp has reversed his retirement just weeks after stepping away from football live on Sky Sports, signing with AFC Rushden & Diamonds. The 40-year-old striker previously played for the club in 2005 and has rejoined the eighth-tier outfit ahead of their upcoming FA Cup first-round match.

Sharp is set to make a one-off appearance to cover for suspended player James Clifton when Rushden & Diamonds face Burton Albion on November 7. Sitting on 299 career goals, the former Sheffield United forward could potentially reach the 300-goal milestone in what is expected to be his final match.

Read the full article on The Sun

EFL cult hero performs shock retirement U-turn as he joins new club just WEEKS after hanging up boots live on Sky Sports

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