A fine century from Michael Klinger could not prevent Victoria from slipping to an eight-wicket defeat to South Australia at the Junction Oval in Melbourne, as Greg Blewett and Mark Cosgrove added 143 to see their side home. Klinger’s 103 from just 102 deliveries had earlier taken Victoria to 204 for 8 in a rain-reduced 41-over match, but the total proved too little for the in-form Cosgrove and an authoritative Blewett.Peter Siddle’s medium pace had accounted for Matthew Elliot (43) and Graham Manou, leaving SA at 2 for 62 in the 16th over, but Blewett and Cosgrove steadied the ship with some attacking strokes. Cosgrove’s 70 came from only 68 balls, while Blewett summoned the strength to smack two sixes in his innings of 79, SA reaching the target in the 39th over. Siddle finished with figures of 2 for 41 from eight overs.Earlier in the day, Klinger had held Victoria’s innings together with a fine 103 after Daniel Cullen, the offspinner, and Darren Lehmann, SA’s captain, shared six wickets between them to rock the middle order. Victoria had got off to a decent start with Klinger and Jon Moss adding 45 before Moss edged to Manou off the bowling of Paul Rofe, the fast bowler.Jason Gillespie then removed Aiden Blizzard, the debutant, for a second-ball duck before Klinger and David Hussey, the Victorian captain, added 87. Hussey became Lehmann’s first victim when he was deceived in the flight and stumped by Manou for 43, a dismissal that sparked off a collapse. Klinger, however, was a rock amid the storm, taking his side past 200 before falling in the 49th over.This win completed a successful week for SA, coming on the heels of their seven-wicket victory over the same opposition in the Pura Cup at the same ground only a couple days ago.
Shoaib Akhtar has been fined 40% of his match fee after being found guilty of breaching ICC rules in the first Test, which is currently being contested by Australia and Pakistan at Perth.The match umpires Billy Bowden, Rudi Koertzen and Steve David charged Shoaib with Level One misconduct for pointing Matthew Hayden towards the dressing-room when he trapped him lbw on Thursday. Celebrating Hayden’s dismissal for 4 in the third over, Shoaib pointed three times to the dressing-room with both fingers. He went on to take 5 for 99 as Australia made 381.Shoaib’s conduct breaches section 1.6 of the ICC Code, which says that a member of the fielding team may not engage in “pointing or gesturing towards the pavilion in an aggressive manner […] upon the dismissal of a batsman”.The ICC match referee, Ranjan Madugalle, announced the decision to fine Shoaib on Friday, after a disciplinary hearing.
Things could not be tighter at the top of the National League Division Two Table, of the four sides in the hunt for promotion, Hampshire and Middlesex have four games remaining, whilst Lancashire and Northamptonshire have five.The run in:Hampshire: v Durham at Riverside on 24 August v Lancashire at The Rose Bowl on 7 September v Middlesex at Lord’s on 14 September v Derbyshire at Derby on 21 September
Lancashire: v Middlesex at Old Trafford on 19 August (d/n) v Somerset at Taunton on 1 September (d/n) v Hampshire at The Rose Bowl on 7 September v Sussex at Old Trafford on 14 September v Northamptonshire at Northampton on 21 September
Northamptonshire: v Derbyshire at Derby on 24 August v Scotland at Edinburgh on 26 August v Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge on 31 August v Durham at Northampton on 7 September v Lancashire at Northampton on 21 September Middlesex: v Lancashire at Old Trafford on 19 August (d/n) v Sussex at Hove on 3 September (d/n) v Hampshire at Lord’s on 14 September v Durham at Riverside on 21 September
The England and Wales Cricket Board is hoping that the issue of whether Virender Sehwag plays in next week’s first Test against England at Mohali can be settled amicably between the International Cricket Council the Board of Control for Cricket in India.It follows the refusal of India’s cricket chief Jagmohan Dalmiya to drop Sehwag from the squad for the Mohali Test. Sehwag was banned for one Test for excessive appealing in the second Test between South Africa and India by match referee Mike Denness.The ICC has already ruled that Sehwag is not eligible to play in Mohali since the current game in Centurion, which Sehwag has missed, has not been granted official status.”As far as we are concerned, Sehwag is eligible to play the first Test,” Dalmiya told a press conference after an emergency meeting of the BCCI in New Delhi.”He has served his one-match ban by not playing the ongoing Test against South Africa at Centurion Park.”The BCCI regards this match as official since it is a five-day match played by the national teams of both countries under the supervision of ICC-recognised umpires.”A spokesman for the ECB responded: “We hope that an amicable solution can be reached by the ICC and the BCCI in this matter. First and foremost, it is an issue for the ICC to resolve.”But the ICC chief executive, Malcolm Speed, later made it clear that his organisation is sticking to its guns.”The ICC has confirmed the one-match ban served on Virender Sehwag by MikeDenness,” he said.”This means that he is ineligible for selection for the first Test againstEngland starting in Mohali next Monday.”We have notified this fact to Denis Lindsay, the properly appointed ICC match referee for the series.”As England warmed up in Jaipur for their match against India which starts tomorrow, their captain Nasser Hussain admitted that the furore was affecting his team’s preparations.”There has been far too much comment off the field,” said Hussain. “We want to concentrate on on-field matters and the cricket has suffered. It has been ashambles over the last 10 days or so.”We are a nation that plays to ICC rules and if there is an official Test going on in Mohali we will be there and up for it. If it is an unofficial Test we will cross that bridge when we come to it.”As players we play cricket and do whatever our authority (the ECB) or the ICC tell us. If the ICC say there is a Test match on in Kathmandu or Mohali we go and play there, that’s how the ICC run the game. And I as England captain will take 10 people with me.”The 15-man Indian squad for the first Test will be named in Jaipur on Wednesday. Sehwag’s inclusion would not guarantee his selection in the final XI.Sehwag and five other Indian players were penalised by Denness, a former England captain, for various irregularities during the second Test at Port Elizabeth.Sehwag, 23 and playing in his second Test, was the only player to be banned.India then refused to play the third Test unless Denness was sacked, which the ICC refused to do. Fearing loss of revenue, the United Cricket Board of South Africa went ahead with the game.The ICC declared the match unofficial and threatened India with further punishment if it continued to flout the authority of the game’s governing body.”The decisions by Denness were too harsh and biased,” said Dalmiya today.”There is no code of conduct for match referees, like it is for the players, and I hope the ICC will address the matter seriously.”
Aside from Sergio Aguero and Diego Costa, there aren’t many top class strikers left in the Premier League. Even Costa’s top class status is under threat should his struggles continue, though he should be afforded more time to prove himself before writing the fiery Spaniard off completely.
However, this famous old league has had its fair share of truly world class forwards during its time, as fans and pundits alike marvelled at their excellence.
The fact that not all of these players plied their trade for the established ‘top four’ clubs means fans from up and down the country can look back with fond memories at such a dazzling array of world class strikers.
Whether it be a cult-hero or genuine superstar, the Premier League has hosted some of the biggest names in their finest hour since its inception back in 1992.
Here’s a look at the top 50 to have played on these shores…
50. JAMES BEATTIE
The former Saints hero was red hot on the South Coast, scoring 23 goals in the 2003/03 season as the club marched to the FA Cup final. Earning an England call up, the former Blackburn youngster was the first talisman of the post Matt Le Tiss era in Southampton.
Though he was unable to replicate his form after a £6m move to Everton in 2005, he will be remembered fondly by most fans.
Endeared himself even further to Southampton fans while manager of Accrington Stanley. Four fans who had travelled to see the lower league outfit against Portsmouth in 2014 were met with a late game cancellation, and Beattie arranged for them to see Southampton vs Burnley the same day in Premier League action.
49. DANIEL STURRIDGE
Despite his constant – and I mean constant – injury problems, the England striker has proved to be one of the most lethal frontmen in the country. A promising teenager, Chelsea snapped him up from Manchester City though he found first-team opportunities hard to come by.
He won the Champions League and the FA Cup in West London, but a £12m move to Anfield in 2013 has helped him truly realise his potential. 21 goals alongside Luis Suarez propelled the Reds to within touching distance of a first Premier League title.
If he can overcome his injuries, the 26-year old will be hugely important for both club and country.
48. YAKUBU
The Nigerian was a revelation after Harry Redknapp plucked him from the Israeli league back in 2003. He was key in Portsmouth’s rise as a Premier League player, netting 29 times across two years at Fratton Park.
Steve McClaren then splashed out £7.5m to bring him to Middlesbrough in 2005, where he helped the side reach the UEFA Cup final that year. Everton then splashed out over £11m to sign him two years later, though injuries played their part.
A massive success.
47. DARREN BENT
Quite a list of clubs for the Derby man. A youngster with huge potential, he is an eye watering total transfer fees to his name, around £62m. The two biggest moves were from Charlton to Tottenham in 2007 for around £16.5m, and from Sunderland to Villa in a huge £24m deal.
He was one of the most lethal strikers around during the ‘00s, earning 13 England caps, scoring one goal. Infamously scored the ‘beach ball’ goal against Liverpool in 2009 while in the North East with Sunderland. Now struggling to get in the Derby team.
However, 106 Premier League goals is a fantastic return.
46. EMMANUEL ADEBAYOR
One of the most enigmatic strikers to play on these shores. On his day, the towering Togolese forward was simply unplayable – for most of his early days at Arsenal, in fact. Brought to the club in 2006 for just £3m, he would leave for £25m to Manchester City after 46 league goals.
Was fantastic in his early City days, scoring in his first four games with the club, including the infamous goal against Arsenal where he ran the length of the pitch to celebrate in front of their fans.
Things quickly turned sour at the Etihad though, and was sent to Spurs on loan. Excellent during his loan spell, scoring 17 times in 33 games. Failed to replicate such form after making the deal permanent, barring a brief (cringe-worthy) renaissance under Tim Sherwood.
Recently released, the 31-year old should be approached with caution.
45. DION DUBLIN
Though he couldn’t quite cut it at Old Trafford after some free scoring in the lower leagues thanks to Eric Cantona and the like, Dublin established himself as a key player at Coventry City during the early part of the Premier League era.
59 goals in four seasons at Coventry was an excellent return, finishing as joint top scorer in the league in 1997/98 along with Michael Owen and Chris Sutton.
A broken neck in 1999 while with Aston Villa somewhat curtailed his scoring exploits, and moved to a centre back in the latter stages of his career.
44. PETER CROUCH
The former England man has been a fixture of Premier League attacks for well over a decade now, turning out for a number of clubs. The 6ft 7inch frontman has made a career out of his height, scoring the most headed goals in Premier League history, with 47.
His good work on the South Coast led to a £7m to Liverpool, scoring 22 goals in 85 games as a back-up to Fernando Torres, while winning the FA Cup and finishing runner up in the Champions League final.
Later moved to Portsmouth for around £11m, netting 11 times in his year as a seasoned professional there. A return to Tottenham, where he started as a youth player, came in 2009 and it was he who scored the goal that saw them qualify for the Champions League.
Now with Stoke, he continues to defy logic and score at the highest level. 22 goals in 42 caps for England isn’t a bad record either. Loves a robotic dance.
43. MARK HUGHES
Before he was a rather miserable looking Stoke City boss, the Welshman had quite the career as a player. Helped the Red Devils secure the first two Premier League titles with 28 goals across two years in his second spell at the club, after previously playing for Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
Joined Chelsea in 1995, sparking up a great partnership with Gianfranco Zola and winning the FA Cup, League Cup and Cup Winners’ Cup. Later moved to Southampton, Everton and Blackburn, though the goals dried up with age.
A glittering career, he has become a solid Premier League manager. Just wish he would cheer up.
42. DIMITAR BERBATOV
Should really be higher up in the list for a man of his immense skill. However, the Bulgarian’s utterly laid back style probably held him – though it made him just so interesting.
The enigmatic star arrived in England with Tottenham Hotspur, scoring 27 league goals in his first two years in London, and helped them win the League Cup in 2008. A mega £30m to Man United followed later in 2008, and was a key part in perhaps their last great side under Sir Alex Ferguson, winning two league titles.
Famous for his hat-trick over Liverpool with the Red Devils, including a spectacular overhead kick. One of the few players to score five goals in a single match, when he demolished Blackburn Rovers. Later moved to Fulham, scoring a further 19 times.
41. CRAIG BELLAMY
Quite the journeyman. The fiery Welsh forward became Coventry’s record signing before their relegation for around £6m in 2000, and later moved to Newcastle.
Despite scoring just 28 league goals over four seasons in the North East, he established himself as a key player in the side next to Alan Shearer. His discipline led to his time there turning sour, before scoring 13 in his season with Blackburn Rovers.
Later moved to Liverpool (twice), infamously scoring at the Nou Camp against Barcelona, West Ham and Manchester City. Always on the brink of another bust up, the Welshman continued to operate at a reasonably high level, before finishing his career with hometown club Cardiff City during their stint in the Premier League.
Scored two against Manchester United while at the Etihad, during the 4-3 loss in 2009.
40. EIDUR GUDJOHNSEN
One of the Icelandic players to play in the Premier League, the ‘Ice Man’ was a key fixture at Chelsea just before, and just after, the game changing takeover by Roman Abramovich. Formed a great partnership with Jimmy Floyd-Hasselbaink during the early ‘00s, scoring an incredible overhead kick against Leeds.
Underlined his importance in West London under Jose Mourinho, having kept his place in the side ahead of a multitude of expensive foreign imports. Left the club for Barcelona, though returned to London with Spurs in 2010 during their Champions League campaign.
39. ALAN SMITH
Burst onto the scene as a youngster with Leeds during their final few years as a Premier League club, proving to be key their run to the Champions League semi-finals back in 2001.
Elland Road fans adored him for his high work-rate, but a move to arch rivals Man Utd in 2004 saw him labelled as a Judas by the fans who once adored him. His record of only 45 goals in the Premier League perhaps doesn’t tell the whole story, after a horrific injury in the FA Cup against Liverpool while with the Red Devils.
Later moved to Newcastle, he will be remembered as one of the shining lights in Leeds’ bleak recent history.
38. DUNCAN FERGUSON
‘Big Dunc’ was thoroughly uncompromising, one of the hardest players to effectively man mark in Premier League history. The highest scoring Scotsman in the division, with 68 goals, he was a popular figure for both Everton and Newcastle.
Known for his temper, the former Rangers man received nine red cards and a three month prison sentence for an on-field incident during his career. However, aside from his aggressive nature, he was one of the hardest target men to deal with for defenders all the way up until his retirement in 2006.
37. TONY YEBOAH
32 goals in 66 matches while with the Yorkshire giants is an excellent return from the Ghanaian forward plucked from relative obscurity in Germany.
What makes it more impressive, however, is the fact that many of his efforts were utterly spectacular. Regularly featuring in the Goal of the Month and Goal of the Season competitions during his two years in England, he is most fondly remember for THAT volley against Liverpool.
36. NIALL QUINN
Now a rather awful Sky commentator, the Irishman was a fixture in old First Division with the likes of Arsenal, and later Manchester City. However, a £1.3m move to the North East in 1996 established the big man as a key part in a Premier League side.
He scored 61 goals during his time at Sunderland, and formed a deadly partnership with Kevin Phillips during the turn of the millennium. The perfect ‘Big Man-Little Man’ combination as the towering Irishman provided knock-downs by the dozen.
A true club legend, he has operated as a player, manager and chairman at the Stadium of Light.
35. EDIN DZEKO
Found it hard to be universally celebrated behind Sergio Aguero, the Bosnian netted an impressive once every 146 mins while with Manchester City.
After a £27m move from Wolfsburg in 2011, he struggled to dislodge the superstar Argentine from the starting line-up, but still contributed hugely to their success. 50 goals in 130 appearances, including 19 in his opening 40, repaid his fee by offering an alternative as City struggled to come to terms with their new found wealth.
However, he infamously scored the equalizer against QPR in the dying moments of the last day of the 2011/12 season, as the Etihad outfit pushed for a Premier League. Aguero takes all the credit for his last gasp winner, Dzeko’s contribution is largely forgotten.
34. MARK VIDUKA
Blast from the past this one. The Australian centre-forward was highly skilled, able to ghost past defenders without any notable signs of pace.
Had to battle against weight issues for large parts of his career, he was still a joy to watch while on song. Turned out for the likes of Leeds during their success in the early noughties, before moving to Middlesbrough, spearheading them to the UEFA Cup final in 2006.
Later moved to Newcastle at the tail end of his career, but could not save them from relegation.
33. KEVIN DAVIES
A battering ram for any team he spearheaded, the £7.5m price tag that Blackburn shelled out to sign him for seemed to weigh heavy on him.
However, his time with Sam Allardyce and Bolton Wanderers ensures his place on the list. Unplayable at times, he did suffer with discipline problems, though that’s exactly the sort of attribute that made him so great.
68 goals for Bolton cemented him a club legend, as the unfancied outfit continually finished in the top 10 of the Premier League during the mid ‘00s. A bruiser, and one you wanted on your team.
Is one of the oldest ever debutants for England, he earned his first cap at 33 years of age when he came on for Peter Crouch against Montenegro in 2012.
32. EMILE HESKEY
Actually a decent player in his day, for all those laughing at his inclusion. Though he has become a comedic figure in recent times, the former England striker still boasts 110 Premier League goals during his time – mostly with hometown club Leicester City and Liverpool.
A bustling target man, he proved to be a great partner for Michael Owen at Anfield, helping the club win the FA Cup, League Cup and UEFA Cup treble in 2001 after his £11m move.
Never overly prolific, the former England man still received over 60 caps for the national side.
31. ROBBIE KEANE
Now with LA Galaxy, the Irishman is an elder statesman of Premier League forwards. He played for Coventry, Leeds, Spurs, Liverpool, West Ham and Aston Villa – scoring 126 league goals. The ex-Inter man was one of the biggest goal threats in the league for years in the mid to late 00’s.
His £19m move to Liverpool did not quite work out, but was a genuine goal threat for a number of years for the various club lucky enough to have secured his services.
30. STAN COLLYMORE
Broke the English transfer record when he joined Liverpool for £8.5m in 1995, and formed a truly deadly partnership with Robbie Fowler, leading to a stunning ratio of a goal every 2.5 games while on Merseyside.
Famously scored the winner over Newcastle United in a 4-3 victory, a game that would later be voted the greatest Premier League fixture of all time, and seriously dented the Toon’s chances of winning the league.
Personal problems arose, and was sold to Aston Villa, and though his career declined – his partnership with Fowler will be long remembered. 62 league goals is not a bad record either.
29. LES FERDINAND
Plundered 149 league goals while with the likes of QPR, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur, and formed a formidable partnership with Alan Shearer on Tyneside in the late 90s.
Propelled QPR to a lofty fifth placed finish during the maiden Premier League season, with 20 goals in West London. A £6m to the North East followed, he scored 41 league goals for Newcastle – including 25 in the 1995-96 season.
Returned to London and helped Spurs stave off relegation before turning out for the likes of West Ham and Bolton.
He sadly never lifted the league title, but finished runner up twice while at St. James’. He’s now back at QPR as their Director of Football.
28. JURGEN KLINSMANN
The German was a figure of hate when he arrived in 1994, perceived to be a diver and a key part of the Germany squad that broke English hearts back at Italia 90.
All was forgiven relatively quickly as he plundered 20 league goals during the 1994-95 season, and later returned on a brief loan spell to help battle relegation three years later.
Will be remembered for his tongue-in-cheek diving celebration.
27. NICOLAS ANELKA
Who hasn’t the enigmatic Frenchman played for then? Arsene Wenger’s first great bargain, he arrived in England as 17-year old, and helped the Gunners secure a league and cup double in 1998.
Moved to Real Madrid for a huge fee, though never really worked out there. Came back for a loan spell with Liverpool, before Kevin Keegan and Man City snapped him up a whopping (then) £13m.
Continued to score and move around top European clubs, before ending up with Sam Allardyce at Bolton. Proved his career was not finished by any stretch of the imagination and was snapped up by Chelsea for £15m, helping them win a Premier League and two FA Cups during his spell back in London.
125 PL goals is not bad for a mercenary.
Probably won’t discuss his ill-fated spell at West Brom.
26. KEVIN PHILLIPS
Another of the great Premier League journeyman, ‘Super Kev’ enjoyed the finest period of his career while with Sunderland. Scored 30 goals in the 1999/00 season and finished the league’s top scorer.
Would go on to be prolific with Southampton, netting 22 times in two season while at St. Mary’s. Now a coach at Derby, he famously secured Crystal Palace’s position in the Premier League with a penalty in the Championship playoff final.
Legend.
25. CARLOS TEVEZ
Welcome to Manchester. The Argentine forward shocked the world as he arrived at West Ham in 2006, and initially flopped. However, he was key into keeping the Hammers up – much to Neil Warnock’s dismay.
He would later move to Manchester United to rub shoulders with the likes of Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo, winning two league titles and the Champions League.
He would then make a controversial switch to Manchester City, adding another league and an FA Cup to an impressive haul.
24. JERMAIN DEFOE
Despite his ageing years, the former England man remains just as deadly in front of goal with Sunderland, proved with his stunning strike in the North East derby last season.
Shrugged off suggestions the £6m price Spurs paid for him back in 2004 was too pricey by netting 20 times across his opening two seasons at White Hart Lane and proving to be one of their key players. A brief spell at Portsmouth yielded yet more goals, before a triumphant return to North London.
It was during his second spell at the club where the ex-England man flourished, being a key fixture in their Champions League run. One of the few players to score in 15 successive Premier League seasons, and has been capped at international level over 50 times.
130 PL goals to his name and still going strong.
23. OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER
The ultimate ‘Super Sub’, Solskjaer is perhaps most famous for his Champions League winning goal in 1999, in the dying embers of Man Utd’s cup final tie with Bayern Munich.
Despite his unfortunate injury problems, the Norwegian supplemented the famous ‘Yorkie and Cole’ front line at Old Trafford for a number of years, before acting as a willing backup for Ruud van Nistelrooy later on.
91 league goals for the Red Devils, with many of them coming late on in a game to secure crucial wins. Famously netted four goals after coming on as a sub against Nottingham Forest in 1999.
22. PAOLO DI CANIO
Before the lively Italian was a god-awful manager, he was an excellent footballer. 14 goals in his first season following a £4.2m move to Sheffield Wednesday back in 1997 made him a fans favourite, oh as well as shoving a referee, of course.
He may have had one of the shortest fuses going, but the former Celtic and AC Milan scored some absolutely glorious goals during his time in the Premier League. None more famous than THAT breathtaking volley against Wimbledon during the 1999/00 season.
Netted 48 times across five seasons after moving to West Ham, though suffered relegation with the club in 2003. Then moved to Charlton for a year without pulling up any trees.
Came back to the league to manage Sunderland, and despite winning 3-0 over Newcastle at St. James’ Park, was absolutely horrendous in the hot-seat.
21. CHRIS SUTTON
Took to the Premier League like a duck to water as he fired Norwich into a surprising third place finish during the opening campaign.
Broke the English transfer record with a move to free-spending Blackburn in 1994 for £5m, and formed the deadly ‘SAS’ partnership with Alan Shearer as the Ewood Park outfit secured a Premier League title against all odds.
Couldn’t quite replicate the form at Chelsea, though he did net a further 18 times to finish joint top scorer in 1997/98 season.
Later found a lot success north of the border with Celtic.
20. FERNANDO TORRES
The Liverpool days, obviously.
What a fantastic player he was in his day, powering through backlines with ease. Instantly shrugged off a £20m price tag in 2007 when arrived on Merseyside, and became one of their greatest forwards in the modern era.
65 goals in just 102 games for the club, with quite a few over arch rivals Man United – one particular effort thoroughly embarrassing Nemanja Vidic.
Injuries took their toll and the World Cup winner lost a bit of his pace, and struggled for form at Chelsea following a mega £50m move in 2011. The price tag seemed to weigh heavy on him, but his impact at Anfield will not be forgotten.
19. TEDDY SHERINGHAM
355 goals across 24 years as a professional footballer is quite the career. Finished as the top scorer in the first ever Premier League season with 22 goals, while with Forest and then Spurs.
Continued to be one of the most prolific scorers in the league, basing his game on intelligence and understanding of the game. Replaced Eric Cantona and Man Utd in 1997 and levelled the scores late on in the Champions League final of 1999.
Returned to Tottenham in 2001 to make a further 70 appearances, and later moved to Portsmouth and West Ham. Now in charge of Stevenage, trying to cut his teeth as a manager.
PFA Player of the Year in 2001, three Premier League titles, 1 FA Cup, 1 Champions League and 147 PL goals – quite the career.
18. JIMMY FLOYD-HASSELBAINK
Plucked from obscurity when he arrived at Leeds for around £2m from Portuguese outfit Boavista, and went on to score 34 goals over two seasons at Elland Road. Following a brief spell with Atletico Madrid after they shelled out £12m to buy him, the Dutchman wound up at Chelsea for a then (rather paltry now) £15m.
Established himself as one of the top strikers in the country while in London, becoming one of the key players just before the Roman Empire took over. Moved to the North East with Middlesbrough after the Russian’s riches got too much for his aging legs, and scored a further 22.
128 PL goals in total, and one of the best strikers around during the early to mid ‘00s.
17. ROBIN VAN PERSIE
Another Flying Dutchman here, in former Arsenal and Man Utd star Robin van Persie. One of Arsene Wenger’s great buys in North London, as he arrived for just £2.75m in 2004 as a youngster.
Always on the cusp of being a world class forward, the Netherland’s all-time top scorer was always battling injuries for large parts of his career. His stellar season in 2011-12, where he scored 30 times to finish top scorer in the league, earned him a controversial switch to Man Utd.
He led the Red Devils to a Premier League title, the last under Sir Alex Ferguson, as they wrestled the crown back from Man City. The forward was just as good at Old Trafford, having seemingly perfected the art of volleying.
His career may have fizzled out under Louis van Gaal, but one of the best foreign imports the league has seen.
10th highest goal scorer in PL history with 144.
16. DWIGHT YORKE
Plundered 73 league goals for Aston Villa in the early stages of the burgeoning Premier League, before moving to Manchester United in 1998.
The Trinidad and Tobago stalwart formed a telepathic partnership with Andy Cole at Old Trafford, helping the Red Devils win a stunning treble during his first season in the North West. Deadly in front of goal, he netted 29 times in his opening season – and would win a further two Premier League titles there.
15. LUIS SUAREZ
The only way Luis Suarez could have left a better impression at Liverpool, is if the club had managed to win the league during 2013/14. The Uruguayan was truly phenomenal during his time on these shores, a talisman for the Reds and the driving force behind getting them to within touching distance of a first Premier League title.
Highly controversial, with accusations of diving, racial abuse and infamously biting Branislav Ivanovic. Still, a genuinely world class forward who captured the hearts of the Kop.
69 goals in 110 games is an astonishing record, largely playing with some average players during his time on Merseyside. Not the most likeable of characters, but one of the greatest players this league has ever seen.
14. GIANFRANCO ZOLA
Before Chelsea were a big deal, the skilful Italian was pulling up trees at Stamford Bridge and helping them remain somewhat competitive.
Described by Sir Alex Ferguson as ‘a clever little so-and-so’, the £4.5m signing from Napoli inspired the club to FA Cup, League Cup and European Cup Winners’ Cup during his time there.
Voted as the club’s best ever player in 2003, the little wizard was gloriously skilful, and a talisman at Stamford Bridge. Helped create a classy, cosmopolitan identity within the club, which is arguably why Roman Abramovich took over in the first place.
A hugely important player for Chelsea in many ways.
13. MATTHEW LE TISSIER
Southampton, in Matt Le Tiss’ day, were a different animal to the one knocking on the top four door now. The South Coast side were relatively small back then, though they did remain competitive – largely due to the efforts of the man they named ‘Le God.’
One of the most naturally gifted players this country has ever produced, he is revered by Barcelona legends Xavi and Andres Iniesta to this day. Effortless at times, the ultimate ‘one club man’ scored some absolutely incredible goals during his career.
He could immaculately control a ball with ease, and had a blistering shot on him. His record of 48 goals from 49 penalties is absolutely outstanding.
Revered by Saints fans, it’s a shame he was never given a proper go of it by a number of England managers.
12. SERGIO AGUERO
Enjoyed perhaps the greatest debut in Premier League history, with two goals and an assist during just 30 minutes on the pitch. Truly was a sign of what was to come, as the former Atletico Madrid man has proved himself to be truly world class.
84 goals and counting, in less than 130 appearances. The £38m shelled out for his services in 2011 seems to be a relative bargain for what Man City have received. Blends power, poise and pace perfectly, and is extremely prolific.
Despite injury problems, there is every chance the Argentine could finish higher on a revised edition of this list. He is by far and away the greatest striker currently plying his trade in England, and one of the best there’s been.
Will, of course, be most remembered for sensationally completing City’s comeback in the dying embers of their final game of the 2011/12 season, winning the league for the Etihad outfit.
11. ROBBIE FOWLER
Another one of the many great Liverpool strikers to play in the Premier League. One of the most natural finishers the country has ever produced, it’s easy to see why those on Merseyside call him ‘God’.
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Ruthless in front of goal, 25 strikes in his debut campaign announced Fowler, a local Scouse lad, on the Premier League stage. 28 the season after followed, and he ended up with 128 for the club across two spells.
A big money move to Leeds didn’t work out as he struggled with injuries and saw the club around him crumble. However, he still managed to score a further 15 in 31 games – just under a goal every two games.
Later moved to Manchester City, and without ever really recapturing his form, became a fans favourite. He would then sensationally return to Anfield, though the spell did not yield much in the way of on-field success.
Finished his career with a staggering 162 PL goals.
10. IAN WRIGHT
Though he made his name at Crystal Palace, before moving to Arsenal before the Premier League’s inception – the Gunners legend still earns the right to be on this list.
A prolific goal scorer, he was a huge part of Arsenal’s success in the mid-90s. He could score any type of goal, and did so in abundance. 104 Premier League goals alone made up the majority of his 185 strikes as a Gunner.
Adored by fans at Highbury, the energetic frontman had a wild side, but was on the whole one of the most charismatic players in the club’s history. Moved to West Ham later on in his career, he scored a further nine times before spells at Celtic, Nottingham Forest and Burnley.
9. ANDY COLE
The joint second highest ever goal scorer in Premier League history, Andy Cole had an uncanny knack to always be in the right place at the right time.
With 187 strikes for 6 clubs, he made his name mostly at Newcastle and Man United in the early ‘90s. Was the darling of the Toon Army before a shock £7m switch to Old Trafford in 1995.
Sir Alex Ferguson took his career up another level, and the ex-England man spearheaded his attack, forming an amazing partnership with Dwight Yorke. Was a huge part of the unprecedented Treble winning campaign in 1998/99.
Spells at Blackburn, Fulham, Man City and Portsmouth followed, though he was unable to really recapture the dizzying heights of his Red Devils days. One of the most lethal forwards in PL history.
8. MICHAEL OWEN
Michael Owen emerged as a fresh faced 17-year old as the new darling of the Kop. Blessed with lightning speed, the young forward had the world at his feet. In light of Robbie Fowler’s injury problems, Owen was a beacon of hope at Liverpool.
Was key in their unique treble of an FA Cup, League Cup and UEFA Cup of 2001, he is currently 7th on the all-time PL top scorers list with 150. Won the Ballon d’Or that same year, and seemed to be destined for great things.
Injuries took their toll on his pace, which was a key part of his game. A deadly finisher, the player would run in behind defences and finish with ease. Oddly enough, his career started to go downhill when he moved to Real Madrid, as his powers started to wane.
Moved to Newcastle to create a dream team with Alan Shearer, though the injuries started to take over. Joined Manchester United on a free in 2008, wearing the club’s iconic Number 7 shirt, and scored the winner in a Manchester derby, along with finally winning a Premier League title.
For all his achievements, there could have been so much more to the player.
7. DIDIER DROGBA
An absolute legend at Chelsea, despite accusations his £24m price tag was overpriced for a 26-year old with injury problems. Embodied the first ten years of the Abramovich era, with his powerful play blended with undeniable skill.
Scored 104 goals in Stamford Bridge, across two spells, as he spearheaded the attack from 2004 to 2012. The Ivorian was unplayable with a fine mix of pace, power and potency. Won four Premier League titles with the club, before returning last season to win a fifth in more of a cameo role.
Simply unstoppable, he’s a legend for both club and country. Famously dragged the Blues to their first Champions League title in 2012, winning the trophy with the last ever kick of his first spell in blue, scoring the winning penalty against Bayern Munich.
Arguably Chelsea’s ever greatest player, and certainly won them their most important trophy to date.
6. WAYNE ROONEY
Like him or not, Wayne Rooney is a hugely accomplished footballer. Played in three European Cup finals, captains both club and country and recently moved level with Andy Cole as the top tier’s second highest ever goalscorer, with 187.
Who said he never fulfilled his potential?
The Red Devils captain burst onto the scene with a stunning goal against Arsenal, and has continued to thrill us since. Almost a decade and a half has passed since then, and Rooney has won the league five times, as well as two League Cups, and a Champions League.
A different animal these days, but the England captain has been a huge part of this division. The sheer number of great goals is hard to believe – the first Everton goal, the volley against Newcastle, the overhead kick in a Manchester derby, the half-way line goal.
Absolutely class and has only just turned 30. True legend.
5. RUUD VAN NISTELROOY
Before Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi redefined the art of goal scoring, Ruud van Nistelrooy was perhaps the best out and out forward the league has ever seen. 150 goals across just five seasons in England, after the Dutchman saw his move delayed a year following a serious injury with PSV.
A poacher in the highest sense of the word, ‘Ruuuuuud’ as fans called him was simply deadly inside the box, netting 95 times in the Premier League. Scored in eight consecutive Premier League games, and broke his own record soon enough by netting in ten games in a row. A great goal scorer, rather than a scorer of great goals.
Helped the Red Devils wrestle the Premier League crown back from Arsenal, he only scored one goal from outside the box during his time here. Fell out with Ferguson in the end, like so many of the greats, the Dutchman was arguably their last great traditional centre-forward.
4. DENNIS BERGKAMP
Another Dutchman, and one of the classiest players to ever play on these shores. His impact following his arrival at Arsenal helped carve the slick, stylish identity they still have today.
Elegant and effortless, he was a huge signing in 1995 for Bruce Ricoh, as the Gunners shelled out over three times their transfer record to sign him from Inter Milan. The non-Flying Dutchman was able to outwit defenders at will, with hugely intelligent play and skill to be marvelled at.
A huge part of both Arsene Wenger’s league and cup double campaigns, Bergkamp was also a key member in the Invincibles team of 2004. A hugely important signing, he made the Gunners cosmopolitan and stylish while linking up with the likes of Ian Wright, and later Thierry Henry.
Scored an unbelievable hat-trick against Leicester in 1997, and defied footballing logic with an astonishing flick to humiliate Newcastle defender Nikos Dabizas and slot home against the Toon Army back in 2002.
Would be the club’s best ever striker were it not for one particular Frenchman.
3. ERIC CANTONA
Arrived at Old Trafford during the dawn of the Premier League, and helped the Red Devils win the first title. Enigmatic, unique, excellent – there are just not enough words to describe ‘King Cantona’.
Inspired the Old Trafford outfit to the maiden PL title, and was instrumental in retaining it the season after, with 18 goals. Despite his many, many (many) flaws, the Frenchman is one of the most important players in the club’s illustrious history – and all for £1.2m!
His third season was marred by his outrageous karate kick on a Crystal Palace supporter, though he returned to captain the side after heavy punishments. Helped the side catch Newcastle at the top of the league with some crucial, breath-taking goals.
Though he fell out of love with the game, and retired relatively prematurely, we will remember some of the most iconic goals in PL history. The chip against Sunderland, the blistering shot over Wimbledon and THAT super cool ‘collar up’ celebration.
2. THIERRY HENRY
The greatest foreign striker in Premier League history, and probably the most technically gifted. A winger of little note when he arrived for £11m from Juventus n 1999, he left as the club’s highest goalscorer and the greatest player in their history.
He had the lot; he was fast, powerful, skilful. He could score any type of goal, from any type of angle. Quite simply – Henry had ‘Va Va Voom.’
Watching him in full flow was like poetry in motion, and he scored some of the most iconic goals in Premier League history. The spinning volley against Man Utd, the mazing runs against Spurs and Liverpool, a multitude of astonishing free-kicks, the World Cup winner simply had it all.
Won the league twice, the latter time being during the Invincibles run of 2003/04 campaign. Embodied everything about the Gunners during the time – stylish, slick, and successful. Has to be the greatest foreign important, it’s scary to think what he would be worth in the current market.
Left for Barcelona in 2007, and played in perhaps the greatest club team of all time – not to mention the fact he won a World Cup and a European Championship with France. Absolutely incredible.
1. ALAN SHEARER
The highest goal scorer in Premier League history with 260, with his nearest challenger way behind on 187. Both a scorer of great goals, and a great goalscorer, Alan Shearer is the best striker in the history of the Premier League.
Was prolific on the South Coast, before Blackburn splashed out a record £3.6m to bring him to Ewood Park in 1992. Led the side to the Premier League title, as they challenged Man United at the summit of the division. His time in Lancashire propelled him into one of the most lethal forwards in the world, scoring 112 goals in just 138 games.
Newcastle United sensationally broke the world transfer record to sign him after Euro ’96, to bring the Geordie lad to his boyhood club. He was revered as a God on Tyneside, having rejected Man United and Sir Alex Ferguson to wear the famous Number 9.
Any other trophy eluded him throughout his career, and he regularly played in mediocre sides at St. James’, but still continued to plunder goals in abundance. A classic centre-forward, he could simply do everything. Strong in the air, excellent long distance shooting and ability to hold the ball up, he rejected a swelling trophy haul in favour of being a Newcastle legend.
The best striker to ever play in the Premier League.
As per Sky Sports Germany, there has been a transfer update out of Tottenham Hotspur involving right-wing-back target Djed Spence.
The Lowdown: Spence eyed by Spurs…
Over the January transfer window, reports claimed Spurs and transfer chief Fabio Paratici had their eye on the Championship sensation amid his brilliant run of form for Nottingham Forest, on loan from Middlesbrough.
ESPN even said that multiple Tottenham bids for Spence were knocked back as the Lilywhites ultimately faltered in their pursuit of homegrown defender.
Their interest, however, has continued long past the winter with Goal even reporting that Spurs are the favourites to sign him as things stand.
Sharing an update, Sky now have some news for supporters.
The Latest: Sky drop Spence to Spurs update…
According to their information, Tottenham and Man City are among seven top English sides ‘vying’ to sign Spence this summer – but they face heavy competition from abroad.
It is believed two Spanish clubs, as well as Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig also have the 21-year-old on their list.
Bayern even have talks planned with Spence’s entourage behind the scenes as the player himself ‘plans to fly’ this summer.
The Verdict: A must-win race…
Lauded as an ‘incredible’ player who ‘massively fits the bill for Conte’ by former Spurs full-back Alan Hutton, Spence’s age and sky-high potential point towards a must-win race for Tottenham.
He’s already been called a ‘massive player’ by Sky pundit Jobi McAnuff for his contribution at Forest on loan this season and all signs arguably point towards him getting better and better.
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An untouchable in Steve Cooper’s side, playing the sixth-most Championship minutes in their squad this season, Spence has also majorly impressed in that time – ranking in as Forest’s fourth-best performer in terms of average match rating (7.01, WhoScored).
At such a young age, it appears the Englishman is already showing he can perform at a consistent level in a tough league, and Spurs may well have a real gem on their hands if they can get a deal done this summer.
In other news: Tottenham attempts to seal mega money agreement take new twist as major off-field news emerges! Find out more here.
Mike Atherton will replace Christopher Martin-Jenkins as cricket correspondent of after England’s tour of New Zealand early next year.Atherton, who has made his name as a journalist on , and is considered one of the major successes of a player becoming a writer, will continue with his Sky Sports commentary alongside his new brief. Martin-Jenkins, who was handed the Peter Smith memorial award at the Cricket Writers’ Dinner in September, will take a role as senior cricket columnist.It is the first major reshuffle of the broadsheet newspapers since 2002 when Angus Fraser retired from playing to take up the main role at and Derek Pringle moved to .
Fans travelling to the World Cup from Australia have had a bad week. Hot on the heels of finding out that they will need to pay an additional US$100 for a special visa when they visit the Caribbean, it now appears that the hassle-free system to apply for the necessary documentation has proved anything but.Ostensibly, the visa is to enable visitors to travel between various islands without going through the normal immigration controls, although a number of people have contacted Cricinfo asking why they have to pay the additional sum when they only planned to visit one island.The authorities had trumpeted how visa centres had been established and how there would be a two or three week turnaround for applications.However, Mia Amor Mottley, the deputy prime minister of Barbados, admitted yesterday that all was not well. “We have hit a snag with the issuing of the special visa in Australia but we are seeking to resolve the issue as soon as possible. I wish to assure our friends in Australia that this will be ironed out.”We took the decision to establish a temporary physical consular presence in Australia to reduce the inconvenience to Australians and New Zealanders. We believe that this is a gesture of good faith on our part in spite of the expense which we are incurring. This is especially since Caribbean people are unable to obtain a visa to enter Australia without sending their passports to Canada.”Mottley’s last remark will hardly be of any consolation given that there would seem to be a duty on any country hosting a major international tournament to make access as straightforward as possible.The comments came after reports that the process for issuing visas in Australia was a shambles. “The visas could take up to three weeks, and you have to send your passport in,” Australia’s honorary consul general to Trinidad and Tobago, Michael Agostinhe, said. “But we don’t know where they have to send it. The mission has arrived here and they’ve got offices but they haven’t taken them up yet. They have staff but we don’t know where they are.”It has been reported that Cricket Australia had received a formal complaint from the Australian Federal Government about the visa delays and was contemplating its next move. “It’s an issue we might seriously need to raise with the ICC,” Peter Young, general manager of public affairs for the board, stated.The authorities denied accusations that the visa was a money-making venture, insisting that the revenue raised would barely meet the costs of the acquisition of the visa system. They also explained that the visa carried wide-ranging security features which would enable the region to minimise the security threats which it may face during the games.
Information on the issuing sites, visa application form and the Instruction Sheet are available on IMPACS website at: www.caricomimpacs.org.
Herschelle Gibbs and Nicky Boje, who yesterday both withdrew from South Africa’s tour to India, have been dropped from the 13-man squad announced to play the last two ODIs against New Zealand this weekend.Andrew Hall and Albie Morkel have been called-up as replacements as South Africa look to complete a 5-0 series win. Gibbs and Boje pulled out of the India tour, which starts later this month, because they received no assurance that they would not be arrested on arrival in the country due to match-fixing allegations.South Africa’s convenor of selectors Haroon Lorgat explained the decision to drop the pair: “It’s rather unfortunate, but we needed to face reality, make the tough decisions and look ahead at our tour of India. Ideally we need to slot in our replacements now, re-define roles in the absence of the two established players, and ready ourselves for India.”Boeta Dippenaar was ruled out after undergoing a wrist operation last night.South Africa squad for 4th and 5th ODIs Graeme Smith (capt), Mark Boucher (wk), AB de Villiers, Andrew Hall, Jacques Kallis, Justin Kemp, Charl Langeveldt, Albie Morkel, Andre Nel, Makhaya Ntini, Shaun Pollock, Ashwell Prince, Jacques Rudolph.
When Rashid Latif made his debut in the Oval Test of 1992 few, including himself, could envisage the course his career would take. Latif kept unobtrusively and athletically that day, as was to become his hallmark, and added to it by compiling a refined fifty.There were a couple of punches off the back foot through square cover, on top of his toes, which prompted Henry Blofeld to comment on what a “beautiful figure” Latif cut on the field. Then, he seemed set to replace Moin Khan as Pakistan’s first-choice wicketkeeper. Yet in the 12 years since, he has played in only 36 more Tests, and memories of that accomplished debut recede every time he makes the news now. In a country not short of temperamental, complex, enigmatic cricketers, Latif has been a breed apart. No cricketer has aroused as many different emotions; he brings on as much justified criticism as he does praise. Just what do you make of him?Ostensibly, he is forthright, outspoken, principled and brave. He has worked tirelessly to eliminate match-fixing, to harness talent in Karachi, and to rebuild the Pakistan side after last year’s World Cup. But there is also a careless, dangerous eccentricity that has marked his career. Running parallel to his efforts to cleanse and enhance the game are incidents which have dented his public image of crusader extraordinaire.There was the alleged racist slur at Adam Gilchrist in last year’s World Cup, or the flimsy charges of match-fixing which he levelled at the fourth one-dayer between Pakistan and India at Lahore earlier this year. There has been the constant ambiguity of his retirement plans – he “retired” in 1994-95 after the match-fixing scandal first broke, and then again from Tests in November 2002. That floored catch he claimed against Bangladesh last year, which led to a five-match ban and what seems to be his final removal from the team, was among the more infamous in a line of incidents that have defied explanation and evoked ambivalence. In all this, it has been difficult to defend Latif, and harder still to reconcile with his image. And now again his behaviour comes under question – although this time the Pakistan Cricket Board’s reaction demands equal scrutiny.Latif conceded a domestic match while leading Karachi Blues against Faisalabad last week, because of what he claimed was a dangerous, unfit pitch. On the surface, at least, he wanted to protect his players. There is no doubt that regulations have been breached – it is not up to one team to decide that the pitch is unfit – and that disciplinary action was necessary, but only after a due process of investigation. Given the unprecedented nature of the incident, and its grave implications, this process surely warranted a meeting between Latif and the Board. Shaharyar Khan, the Board’s chairman, says he based his decision on the views of the match referee, the umpires, the domestic tournament monitoring committee, a national selector … and a letter from Latif to the match referee.The domestic regulations state that “If a match is conceded, the points scored by the defaulting team during the tournament … will be nullified and the team will be scratched from the tournament … in addition a fine of 15,000 rupees shall be imposed.”According to the PCB, their chairman “has exercised his discretion in deciding that the Karachi Blues team would be allowed to continue participating … and that no fine or restriction would be imposed on them…” The PCB says he made this decision “in view of the fact that Latif appears to have acted independently”.But there is no evidence here: views have been garnered from various players in the drama, and not from the instigator. A unilateral decision seems to have been taken. Why single Latif out? He was captain at the time, but stated that the decision was taken along with his team members. If it is natural that the captain gives the unified views of his team, how do you distinguish an independent decision from a group one?Furthermore, the punishment was taken him bearing in mind that Latif has acted in “such a precipitous manner” before. What were they referring to here? That catch? His comments on match-fixing? That last incident occurred while he wasn’t with the board or the team in any official capacity, yet it seems that it’s now being used against him. Those incidents bear no relation to what he did last week – an act, which by its unique nature, demands examination in isolation.The relationship between the PCB and Rashid Latif has always been prickly. His outspoken views have rarely endeared him to successive boards over his career: indeed, they have often been embarrassing. He has been tolerated, rather than welcomed, and when possible they have tried to remove him altogether. He hasn’t helped himself, but this time it seems the PCB is falling over itself to remove him swiftly and arbitrarily.This season there had been increasing calls for his recall to the national team, something the Board seemed reluctant to countenance. Now he is banned for six months, and out of contention for the next three series. Is this just a convenient way for the PCB to oust him from Pakistan cricket one last time? If this is the end – which is by no means certain – then, given the promise of that 1992 debut, it is an undignified one.Osman Samiuddin is a freelance journalist based in Karachi.