Recently reports had emerged that Celtic were interested (Daily Record) in making a loan move for Sheffield United’s striker Billy Sharp. The 33-year-old is still the club captain, but he has failed to get regular game time at Bramall Lane this season. Sharp has started just one game in the Premier League this season.
Chris Wilder says that Sharp will decide his future
Now, Sheffield manager Chris Wilder went on to reveal that he would allow Sharp to leave the club in January if the striker wants to depart. The Blades boss said (Daily Record), ”Always the decision is with Billy. Obviously, from an individual point of view, Billy is disappointed he’s not playing. The decision is with him, and if he comes to me and says he needs to be playing, then I will respect that. But we need him here as well between now and the end of the season, so our need is just as big, if not bigger, as those clubs in the Championship.”
Wilder is known for his honest opinions, and he made it clear that he wants the striker to stay. However, he also indicated that he wouldn’t stand in Sharp’s way if he wants to leave in this window. Hence, Celtic will get a chance to sign the experienced striker if Sharp decides to make a move.
The Blades have been flying high in the Premier League this season as they have exceeded expectations after winning promotion. Wilder currently has Oliver McBurnie, David McGoldrick and Lys Mousset as his forward options. Hence, we believe that Sharp will continue to struggle for game time at Bramall Lane.
Should Lennon go for him?
The former Leeds United striker is 33, and he would only be a short term solution for the Bhoys. Celtic are desperately in need of adding cover for Odsonne Edouard who has led the line with aplomb so far. However, beyond him, Celtic are short of quality options as Leigh Griffiths and Vakoun Issouf Bayo haven’t shown promising signs this season. Hence, a striker is likely going to be on the agenda of the club.
Sharp is a natural when it comes to scoring goals as he is a live wire in and around the opposition box. He is a smart operator and knows to get in the right place at the right time. His hold up play is also worth mentioning, and he works hard for his team upfront.
We believe that the Sheffield United man would be a decent backup signing for Edouard, but Celtic can be more ambitious and look for a long term solution. If the Scottish champions fail to get the perfect young striker, then they can probably fall back on Sharp. However, it all depends on whether Sharp would want a move or not.
