Hull City coach Liam Rosenior has underscored the multifaceted contribution that new signing Billy Sharp can make to the team, both on and off the pitch. While securing the Championship’s all-time leading scorer and promotion expert on a free transfer at the beginning of the transfer window is considered a significant achievement, Sharp’s registration won’t be finalized in time for the New Year’s Day clash against Sheffield Wednesday.
Rosenior highlighted the intangible value Sharp brings, emphasizing the impact of his experiences and leadership in various team environments. Beyond on-field performances, the coach stressed the importance of conversations in the dressing room, during travel, in team hotels, and in training. Rosenior, drawing from his own playing career, emphasized the crucial role of experienced peers as mentors and role models.
Billy Sharp, a legend at Sheffield United, boasts an impressive record, securing three promotions with his boyhood club, as well as successful spells with Scunthorpe United, Southampton, Doncaster Rovers, and Leeds United. Despite being released by Sheffield United in the summer, Sharp demonstrated his goal-scoring prowess in Major League Soccer with six goals in 12 appearances for Los Angeles Galaxy.
Rosenior acknowledged Sharp’s ability to be at the right place at the right time, emphasizing his understanding of goal-scoring positioning. While recognizing that a 37-year-old with such prowess might command a high transfer fee in the market, Rosenior stressed the affordability of bringing in players like Sharp to contribute to Hull City’s journey and enhance the development of their young talents.
However, Sharp’s debut for Hull City will have to wait until the FA Cup third-round tie against Birmingham City on January 6, as he cannot be registered until the transfer window opens on January 1. Rosenior expressed his desire for two or three more signings, aiming for “sensible signings” to strengthen specific areas of the squad. With the squad now more stable compared to his earlier tenure, Rosenior feels they can be more selective in their recruitment, focusing on players who will tip the balance in their favor for the rest of the season.
The coach highlighted that while Sharp’s arrival impacts the striking options, there are still other areas that need strengthening. He expressed satisfaction with securing an early signing and emphasized the ongoing efforts to make Hull City as strong as possible for the remainder of the season. In terms of the squad, winger Jason Lokilo is set to return for the upcoming game against Bristol City, while Jaden Philogene, another winger, is recovering from a knee injury but is still some way from returning to action.
Leave a Reply