Top 10 players with the most fouls committed in Premier league
The definition of a foul has changed a little since the Premier League was launched in 1992, but the identity of the player who has been fouled the most in the history of the competition may surprise some. Back when Tony Adams, Paul McGrath and Martin Keown were making fierce tackles to challenge opponents, the game was a little more physical than it is in 2015. However, when looking back at the most fouled players in the Premier League era, there are a few surprises on the list. So let’s find out with Kingsoccertips the list of 10 players with the most fouls committed in Premier league through the following article!
Top 10 most fouled players in the Premier League in history
1. Ashley Young (Watford, Aston Villa and Manchester United) – 540 fouls
Critics often question whether some of Ashley Young’s fouls are credible, as the winger has long been known for his ability to ‘go down’ even when faced with less-than-stellar tackles. Young’s style of play has been controversial throughout his career, particularly when he has been accused of exploiting delicate tackles to gain an advantage.
In a Champions League match last week, former Manchester United captain Roy Keane was not shy about calling Ashley Young “an absolute disgrace” when commenting on his poor balance. Despite the harsh criticism, Young has gone down in Premier League history as the most fouled player of all time. This not only reflects a style of play that is often under pressure from opponents, but also demonstrates an ability to draw attention from opposing defences. The contradiction in Young’s playing style and image has sparked much discussion about the fine line between ingenuity and exploiting the rules of the game.
2. Steven Pienaar (Everton and Tottenham) – 483 fouls
South African Steven Pienaar has yet to play for Everton this season as he struggles with a long-term injury. His body has been significantly worn down by the numerous fouls he has suffered over the years. His fitness issues have been the biggest obstacle, preventing him from rediscovering the form that once made him one of the Merseysiders’ most creative midfielders.
Throughout his career, Pienaar has been renowned for his fluid play and flair in midfield. However, his ability to control the ball smoothly has been repeatedly exposed by opponents who have tackled him aggressively. This has not only reduced his effectiveness but also left him vulnerable to serious injuries. However, Everton fans still have high expectations for the day he returns, bringing with him the creativity and energy that is the bright spot in the team’s lineup.
3. Kevin Davies (Southampton, Blackburn, Bolton) – 466 fouls
It’s safe to say that combative striker Kevin Davies has been through some tough battles throughout his Premier League career. Not only is he third on the list of most fouled players, he’s also the top fouled player with a staggering 605. This reflects Davies’ aggressive and fearless playing style, a trait that makes him a nightmare for both opponents and referees.
Davies finally announced his retirement in September, bringing an end to an illustrious career at the age of 38. Although he’s away from the pitch, the “war scars” from those fierce battles will always remind him of his tireless dedication to every game. The image of a strong Davies, fighting to the end for his team, will forever be a symbol of determination in English football.
4. Mikel Arteta (Everton and Arsenal) – 463 fouls
It’s no surprise that Arsenal captain Mikel Arteta has spent a lot of time in the treatment room as he enters the final years of his Premier League career. Persistent injuries have taken a toll on Arteta after years of dedication on the pitch, especially in an increasingly physical and competitive game.
Arteta is renowned for his energetic style of play and ability to dictate the tempo of a game, which often sees him involved in tense midfield battles. His fierce tackling has not only made him an influential presence in high-profile matches, but has also been marked by a significant number of fouls throughout his career. However, Arteta’s enthusiasm and fighting spirit have made him a key figure in Arsenal’s transformation.
To succeed in sports betting, it’s important to understand key sports betting terms like odds, spread, and moneyline
5. Gabriel Agbonlahor (Aston Villa) – 436 fouls
Speedy attackers are often met with aggressive tackling, and Gabriel Agbonlahor was no exception. During a decade with Aston Villa’s first team, he was often on the receiving end of aggressive tackling from opponents, partly due to his pace and ability to penetrate. Agbonlahor’s explosive style of play not only unsettled defences but also made him a prime target for tactical fouls.
Like many players with a bold style of play, Agbonlahor spent a fair amount of time in the treatment room recovering from injuries, especially in the later years of his career. These injuries were the price he paid for his energetic and fearless style of play. Despite this, Agbonlahor’s legacy as one of Aston Villa’s fastest and most dedicated strikers will forever be remembered by fans.
6. Leighton Baines (Everton) – 386 fouls
Full-back Leighton Baines has been Everton’s main source of attack for years, thanks to his ability to get forward and defend with ease and his accuracy in dead-ball situations. It’s no surprise, then, that he’s on the list of players who are often fouled. Opponents are always looking to limit his influence, especially with his pacey runs down the flanks and accurate crosses.
Baines not only creates chances for his teammates but also makes the most of set-pieces around the penalty area. With his superb free-kick skills, he has turned many fouls into valuable scoring opportunities for Everton, often firing in dangerous shots into the top corner. This ability has not only helped Baines assert his important role but also made him one of the most dangerous full-backs in the Premier League in his generation.
7. Gareth Barry (Aston Villa, Manchester City and Everton) – 365 fouls
Gareth Barry is a name that cannot be missed on the list of the most fouled players in the Premier League. With 530 fouls, he is second on the list and the leader when it comes to yellow cards, with a total of 106. Although not known for his violent style of play, Barry is always willing to get into heated disputes, which partly explains the number of yellow cards he has received throughout his career.
A seasoned midfielder, Barry is never one to shy away from a challenge, whether in central midfield or in the thick of things. Over his two decades in the Premier League, he has also been sent off six times, a testament to his determination and sometimes his temper in difficult situations. However, Barry’s career was marked not only by the number of fouls he committed but also by his ability to dictate the game and his significant contributions to the clubs he played for.
8. Clint Dempsey (Fulham, Tottenham) – 357 fouls
A versatile attacking midfielder, Clint Dempsey has been one of the most fouled players in the Premier League during his six years in the competition. With his strong, creative and fearless style of play, Dempsey has been a constant threat to defences. Opponents have often resorted to fouling him to stop his progress on the pitch, reflecting his danger and influence on the game.
Dempsey has also been named the highest-scoring American in Premier League history, an impressive feat that demonstrates his goalscoring ability and importance to the team. With his powerful and decisive style of play, Dempsey has left a lasting impression on the Premier League, not only through his goals but also through his contributions to the teams he has played for.
9. Scott Parker (Charlton, Chelsea, Newcastle, West Ham, Tottenham and Fulham) – 356 fouls
Scott Parker, who is currently doing well in the Championship with Fulham, has endured a lot of attacks during his time in the Premier League. With his fierce and combative style of play, Parker is not only a solid central midfielder but also a tempo-setter. However, his aggressive style of play often makes him a target for fouls from opponents.
Parker is 9th on the list of players who have committed the most fouls in Premier League history with 306. This number clearly reflects his competitive and aggressive style of play, which has led to many conflicts on the pitch. However, Parker’s dedication and fighting spirit have always been highly regarded, making him one of the Premier League’s key central midfielders for many years.
10. Leon Osman (Everton) – 347 fouls
It’s no surprise that Leon Osman has endured plenty of attacks throughout his Everton career, despite not being the physically imposing midfielder many of his peers have been. Osman is known for his technical prowess and excellent reading of the game, but his lack of physicality compared to more powerful midfielders has made him an easy target in tight encounters.
In recent seasons, Osman has spent a lot of time in the treatment room, a clear indication of the toll his long career at the top has taken on his body. Despite being regularly injured, Osman has remained a key figure in the Everton squad, playing an irreplaceable role in controlling the flow of play. However, fitness problems prevented him from maintaining consistent form, and eventually his Premier League career was severely affected by persistent injuries.
Conclusion
Based on the list of “Top 10 players with the most fouls committed in Premier league”, it is easy to see that physicality and aggressive play are always characteristic of this tournament. Players like Ashley Young or Kevin Davies not only face fouls but also become the center of controversy and challenges from opponents. This emphasizes that the Premier League requires not only technique but also endurance and the ability to withstand high pressure. Kingsoccertips hopes that this article has provided you with a deeper insight into a unique aspect of the English top flight.
Post Related
