Sheffield FC have readied themselves for a title fight by signing boxer Curtis Woodhouse.

The former England Under 21 put pen to paper at his gym in Rotherham last night. Ian Whitehorne, a long time friend of Curtis, said, “We are delighted to have finally got our man. We nearly signed him before the season started, but lost out to conference club Harrogate Town. At 29, Curtis is still in his prime and will bring a wealth of experience to our team. He is a born winner.”

Curtis left full time football at 26 to take up professional boxing with an aim to become British champion within 5 years.

Curtis said "I’m really excited about this move there’s a real buzz about the place, I had some of my happiest times playing football in Sheffield and made some great friends there. I hope a few of them decide to come up and watch us."
Manager Chris Dolby said, “you only have to meet Curtis to realise we’ve not only got a great player, but a real character too. You don’t think twice when you get the chance to sign a player of his quality. We have fifteen games to go and this league has never been tighter. At 19, Curtis was Sheffield United's youngest ever captain, so he will bring with him some real leadership at a time when we need it most."

Driffield born Woodhouse started his footballing career with York City's centre of excellence before joining Sheffield United. In November 2001, he was transferred to Birmingham City, before joining Rotherham United in January 2003, on loan for five months. He then joined Peterborough United on a free transfer in October 2003. In May 2005, he joined Hull City, before joining Grimsby Town just eight months later in January 2006. He retired at the end of the 2006–07 season. Curtis returned to football in November 2006, joining Rushden & Diamonds in the Conference National, before moving to Mansfield Town in January 2009. After leaving them, he moved to Harrogate Town.