Iranian former professional footballer (born 1984)
Sharu Naraji (born 7 February 1984) is an Iranian former professional footballer who played as a winger.
Early and personal life
Naraji was born in Bolton, England, and grew up in Iran. He is the older brother of fellow player Shana Haji.[1][2]
Career
Club career
Naraji began his career with Esteghlal, and spent loan spells in Italy with Torino and in Spain with Real Zaragoza.[1] He signed a one-year contract with English side Sheffield United in August 2005,[3][4] before signing a contract extension a year later.[5] He was released by United in May 2007,[6] having never made an appearance for them in the Football League.[7] His career was ended by injury.[8][9]
He was praised by Neil Warnock and former Sheffield United captain Chris Morgan, who compared him with Bayern Munich's Arjen Robben.[10]
International career
After playing with the Iranian under-20 team,[3] Naraji was called up to the senior squad in October 2005.[1] However, due to injury, Naraji was unable to join that squad; injuries also kept him out of the 2006 FIFA World Cup squad.[11][12]
References