Sheffield United captain Billy Sharp is praised for being a true leader

Moore, the Professional Footballers’ Association representative at Bramall Lane, found himself thrust centre stage when the Premier League ground to a halt in March because of the Covid-19 outbreak, as clubs were forced to negotiate salary deferrals with squad members before piecing together ‘Project Restart’.

Speaking as United prepare to return to competitive action with a visit to Aston Villa next week, Moore told The Star that the actions of his captain had prevented Chris Wilder’s side from becoming distracted by the politicking at the height of the crisis.

“Sharpy took most of the responsibility,” the goalkeeper said. “And since Sharpy has been captain, he’s been unbelievable. He’s led by example the whole way through.

“He has the utmost respect from every member of our dressing room., But if the lads need any advice or help, then I’m there.”

Seventh in the table and only five points outside the Champions League qualification positions with 10 matches remaining, United were not short of incentives to keep themselves in shape during lockdown. But with footballers being asked to contribute to the debate about how best to salvage the season and protect the finances of top-flight clubs, there was a danger Wilder’s charges could have become distracted by the endless rounds of virtual meetings and teleconference calls.

Instead, after learning that everyone under his command was prepared to complete the fixture schedule despite hearing some of their colleagues express concerns about playing through the pandemic, Wilder reported United were mentally and physically “ready” when they reported back for training last month.

“I’m always there for the lads, that’s the sort of person I am,” Moore said. “But Sharpy has sorted everything out really, in the meetings with the Premier League.

“He embraces that role. He can’t sit still. I know he will have been like a Duracell Bunny during lockdown.”

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