Golfer has a ball on Sheffield United tour

Rising international golf star Matt Fitzpatrick was presented with a Sheffield United shirt on a special visit to his beloved Blades’ ground.

The Sheffield United fan, who is a season ticket holder, spent time at Bramall Lane while Sky Sports did some shooting for a film about his first full year on the professional circuit.

Matt, aged 21, in his first full season as a professional, finished third in the Lyoness Open in Austria, second in the Omega European Open behind fellow Sheffield golfer Danny Willet, before winning his maiden European Tour title - the British Open.

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The golfer, who has his initials engraved on the back of his clubs in Sheffield United’s red and white colours, said: “The Blades have certainly helped me along the way since turning professional.

“In terms of golf it has been the best year of my life but I’ve also had a great afternoon here at Bramall Lane,” added Matt, who hopes to be back in the country in time to watch United in action at Old Trafford in the FA Cup 3rd round tie against Manchester United.

During his visit to Bramall Lane, the former Tapton School pupil, who is a member at Hallamshire Golf Club, met up with first team manager Nigel Adkins and showed him some of his footballing skills.

Matt, who was presented with a United home shirt with Fitzpatrick and number 11 on the back, used to play for Hallam Rangers in the Sheffield Junior Sunday League.

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His stadium visit took in the Legends of the Lane, where he presented one of his clubs to club historian John Garrett.

It will feature in a display commemorating United’s famous and celebrity fans.

The Sky Sports film about Matt’s rise to stardom will be screened today.