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AFC Rushden & Diamonds eye more FA Cup history with Billy Sharp return in the frame

AFC Rushden & Diamonds are preparing for a landmark FA Cup first-round tie at Burton Albion, with former striker Billy Sharp yet to rule out a remarkable return to the club where he scored his first professional goal.

by
Chris Dunlavy
25 October 2026

Rumours of Billy Sharp’s retirement may have been greatly exaggerated – at least if AFC Rushden & Diamonds get their way.

Twenty-one years ago, Sharp scored the first of his 299 professional goals for the original Rushden & Diamonds during a prolific spell on loan from boyhood club Sheffield United.
He would go on to win six promotions, play in the Premier League and forge a reputation as arguably the greatest Championship striker of the 21st century before announcing his retirement two weeks ago.
Diamonds did not fare so well, slipping out of the Football League in 2006 and folding...

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Related TopicsAFC Rushden & Diamonds Burton Albion EFL FA Cup Featured Football Football League Non-League Premier League Premium Sheffield United Counties League

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