Sharp: I’m California dreaming
FIRST it was David Beckham, later Steven Gerrard – now the unlikely figure of 37-year-old Billy Sharp has attained hero status among the LA Galaxy faithful.
Just a few months ago, Sharp was in the depths of despair after it seemed his hometown club Sheffield United had changed its mind over an arrangement to reward their local hero with a new contract.
The veteran striker could not immerse himself in the Blades’ Premier League promotion celebrations at the end of last season, knowing that his time in Sheffield was coming to an end.
“I had been told I was getting another year, which was perfect because I’d have accepted it being my final season with the club – one last fling in the Premier League,” he said.
“When I saw what was happening it hit me hard.”
Offers came in from the Championship and League One, but Sharp was unmoved. “Nothing really excited me,” he added.
Then out of the blue came the chance to join glamour Major League Soccer side LA Galaxy.
It was a short-term deal until the end of this MLS season, but with the option of a further season. Sharp didn’t think twice.
He said: “I’ve always wanted to play abroad and the opportunity to move to California is a dream.”
It was also a dream start, with six goals in the first six games for the former Blade, including a hat-trick against Adrian Heath’s Minnesota United, the Galaxy coming back from 3-1 down to assure the veteran striker of instant hero status.
He had also displayed nerves of steel to score on his debut via the penalty spot, after coming on as a substitute in a 3-0 victory over Chicago Fire.
“It’s been a wonderful experience already,” Sharp added. “Everyone has just been so welcoming.
“And I’m just doing what I’ve always tried to do – and that’s scoring goals.”