Billy Sharp spoke of his joy at returning to the starting line-up and getting back on the scoresheet after a "frustrating" couple of months out of the team.

Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Nottingham Forest saw Sharp make his first start in a United shirt since September’s win at Bournemouth after being limited to appearances off the bench in recent weeks.

The 28-year-old striker converted a second-half penalty at the City Ground to cancel out Matty Fryatt’s opener and secure a valuable away point for Neil Redfearn’s side.

"It was tough but I was delighted that I started the game," said Sharp. "It was good to get out and do battle against one of my former teams and it was a bonus to get a goal as well.

"It’s been very frustrating. We’ve had a few managers and I got injured in between.

"I’m at a stage now where I want to play every week. It has been frustrating but, in patches, the lads have done really well.

"I’m thankful and happy that I started on Saturday. I enjoyed being out there.

"I’m a striker. I’m selfish in a way. I’m a team player but I wanted the penalty and I was just happy to see it hit the back of the net."

The draw at the City Ground ended a run of three consecutive away defeats as United picked up their first point on the road since October’s trip to Norwich, moving them to 18th in the table.

"To get a point way from home at Nottingham Forest, I’m sure the fans will say the same, it’s a good point," said Sharp.

"We needed a win because we haven’t got the right results lately but it’s something to build on. Hopefully we’ll go into the home game with Wigan and get the win.

"We just need some momentum where we can win two games on the trot and then we can go away from home and get a point and get the confidence back.

"There are some great players here, players who have played in the Premier League as well.

"When you look at the table, it’s not nice. You don’t want to be down there but if we can get two or three wins on the trot it shoots you up the table."