The English Premier League has witnessed the brilliance of many footballing legends, but not all heroes wear capes or bask in the limelight. In this exploration, we delve into the careers of the often overlooked and underappreciated, the top 15 underrated players in English Premier League history. From prolific goal-scorers to stalwart defenders, these players may not have hogged the headlines, but their impact on the pitch is undeniable.
1. Gabriel
Arsenal’s defensive solidity in the Premier League this season, conceding just 15 goals, is largely credited to William Saliba. While the 22-year-old rightly earns praise, his defensive partner Gabriel often finds himself overshadowed. According to WhoScored, Gabriel actually boasts a higher average match rating of 6.83 compared to Saliba’s 6.74 this season, and he also registers more interceptions and blocks per 90. This isn’t to suggest Gabriel is superior, but rather to highlight that both players contribute equally to their defensive partnership, despite Saliba receiving more recognition.
2. Steed Malbranque: The Unsung Midfield Maestro
In the captivating realm of midfield artistry, Steed Malbranque emerges as the unsung maestro, weaving his magic with 39 goals and 55 assists. His footballing odyssey at Fulham, Tottenham, and Sunderland showcased a player of sublime skill, leaving an indelible mark as one of the best Premier League players.
Even former Prime Minister Tony Blair acknowledged Malbranque as one of the Premier League’s hidden gems, highlighting his influence beyond the pitch. The midfielder’s impact resonated far beyond statistics, adding a layer of intrigue to the legacy of underrated players, solidifying Malbranque’s status among the best in Premier League history.
3. Ethan Pinnock
When considering Brentford, the focus often gravitates towards attacking stars like Ivan Toney and Bryan Mbeumo. Yet, even among defensive players, Ethan Pinnock tends to operate under the radar. In fact, when GIVEMESPORT compiled a list of the most underrated players of the 2022/23 season, all the acclaim went to Ben Mee instead.
However, Pinnock is finally set to receive the recognition he deserves for his consistently stellar defensive performances for the Bees. The statistics underscore his impressive displays, with the 30-year-old rated as one of his team’s top performers on WhoScored in the league so far this season.
4. Shola Ameobi: The Super Sub Hero
In the hallowed halls of Newcastle United’s history, Shola Ameobi stands tall as the Super Sub Hero, one of the most underrated players in the Premier League. With 298 appearances and 43 goals, Ameobi’s impact extended far beyond his prolific stats. Dubbed the “Mackem Slayer” for his remarkable performances against Sunderland, Ameobi’s ability to change the game from the bench added an underrated chapter to Premier League folklore. His contribution goes beyond numbers, marking him as a cult hero in the Toon Army’s collective memory. Ameobi’s underrated status only adds to the mystique of his legendary tenure at Newcastle United.
5. James Milner: Unseen Brilliance Unleashed
James Milner, a consummate professional and versatile midfielder, has left an indelible mark on the English Premier League. Known for his work ethic, adaptability, and leadership qualities, Milner has consistently performed at a high level throughout his career.
Starting at Leeds United and later donning the jerseys of Aston Villa, Manchester City, and Liverpool, he showcased an ability to excel in various roles, from central midfield to fullback. Despite not always receiving the same attention as flashy attackers, Milner’s contributions to both his teams and the league have been invaluable, making him one of the unsung heroes in the EPL’s recent history.
6. Emile Heskey: The Unselfish Force
In the age of prolific strikers, Emile Heskey stood out as the Unselfish Force, solidifying his position as one of the most underrated players in the Premier League. Overshadowed by the likes of Michael Owen and Robbie Fowler, Heskey’s blend of pace, physical strength, and footballing intelligence resulted in 110 goals and 53 assists.
His unselfish playstyle not only contributed to his personal success but also provided a vital foundation for the achievements of his teams. Heskey’s ability to create opportunities for his teammates, coupled with his goal-scoring prowess, earned him a lasting place among the Premier League’s unsung contributors.
7. Gareth Barry: The Unsung Midfield Maestro
Gareth Barry’s record-breaking 653 Premier League appearances paint a picture of consistency that often goes unnoticed in discussions about the best midfielders. Beyond the numbers, Barry’s on-field intelligence and pivotal role in securing a Premier League title with Manchester City showcase an underrated legacy. While others may grab the spotlight, Barry’s enduring impact on the pitch deserves a closer look in the mosaic of Premier League history.
8. Olivier Giroud: The Reliable Marksman
In the echelons of Premier League strikers, Olivier Giroud stands as a beacon of reliability. With an impressive tally of 90 goals in 255 appearances for Chelsea and Arsenal, Giroud’s contributions extend beyond mere numbers. His physical strength and heading accuracy make him a potent force in the box, often overshadowed by the glamour of bigger names. Whether in the Blue of Chelsea or the Red of Arsenal, Giroud’s ability to find the back of the net, coupled with his unselfish play, solidifies his place as one of the most underrated marksmen in Premier League history.
9. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink: The Lightning Quick Striker
Twice a Golden Boot winner, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink’s legacy as one of the best Premier League strikers is defined by his lightning-quick pace and explosive shot. Amassing an impressive tally of 127 goals in 288 appearances, Hasselbaink’s remarkable feats often linger in the shadows of Chelsea’s storied history.
His ability to create magic on the pitch, marked by electric bursts of speed and clinical finishing, cements him as a true gem in the Premier League’s rich tapestry of goal-scorers. Hasselbaink’s underrated brilliance places him among the best Premier League strikers, showcasing the depth of talent in the league’s celebrated history.
10. Sami Hyypia: The Silent Leader
As the first non-British Isles captain in Liverpool’s storied history, Sami Hyypia brought a silent but commanding presence to the heart of the defense. With 318 appearances, Hyypia, alongside Jamie Carragher, formed a formidable partnership crucial to Liverpool’s 2004-05 Champions League triumph. His leadership qualities, defensive acumen, and unwavering commitment make him an unsung leader in Premier League history, contributing significantly to Liverpool’s European success.
11. Tim Cahill: The Box-to-Box Dynamo
A dynamo in the truest sense, Tim Cahill’s box-to-box prowess left an indelible mark on the Premier League. Despite his exceptional aerial ability, aggressiveness, and a Ballon d’Or nomination, Cahill’s underrated status persists, attributed in part to representing Australia rather than a European powerhouse. His 56 goals and 22 assists underscore his impact, and Cahill’s relentless work ethic on the pitch deserves recognition as a true unsung hero of the English game.
12. Ian Taylor: Midfield Dynamo
Ian Taylor, the unsung hero of English football, etched his legacy with powerhouse performances in midfield. A driving force for Aston Villa during the late ’90s, Taylor’s robust style, and eye for goal often went underappreciated in an era of glamorous stars. A true midfield dynamo, his impact was felt on the pitch, contributing significantly to Villa’s successes. Taylor’s unyielding commitment and underrated flair make him a standout figure, embodying the spirit of overlooked brilliance in the beautiful game.
13. Lucas Radebe: The Flamboyant Defender
In the heart of Leeds United’s defense, Lucas Radebe’s flamboyancy and acrobatic skills transcended the conventional role of a center-back, infusing flair into every match. Despite his 201 appearances often playing second fiddle to more renowned teammates, Radebe’s prolific man-marking abilities positioned him as an unsung hero in Premier League defense.
A masterful reader of the game, Radebe’s impact extended beyond the stat sheet, significantly contributing to Leeds United’s memorable campaigns in the late 1990s and early 2000s. His legacy is a testament to the transformative power of even the smallest clubs in Premier League history.
14. Tim Howard: Guardian of the Goal
Tim Howard stood as a stalwart guardian, making remarkable saves and leaving an enduring impact. Best known for his time with Everton, Howard’s shot-stopping prowess was a reassuring presence between the posts. His American grit and determination were on full display, breaking records and earning the respect of fans across the league. With hands as safe as a vault, Howard’s tenure in the Premier League showcased his resilience, making him a legendary figure in the art of goalkeeping.
15. Edson Álvarez
When considering Brentford, the focus often gravitates towards attacking stars like Ivan Toney and Bryan Mbeumo. Yet, even among defensive players, Ethan Pinnock tends to operate under the radar. In fact, when GIVEMESPORT compiled a list of the most underrated players of the 2022/23 season, all the acclaim went to Ben Mee instead.
However, Pinnock is finally set to receive the recognition he deserves for his consistently stellar defensive performances for the Bees. The statistics underscore his impressive displays, with the 30-year-old rated as one of his team’s top performers on WhoScored in the league so far this season.
Also Read: Top 10 Worst English Premier League Players of All Time
Wrapping It Up!
These 15 players, often overlooked in the grand narrative of the Premier League, deserve a moment in the spotlight. Their contributions, though underrated, have left an indelible mark on the beautiful game, showcasing the depth and richness of talent that the English Premier League has witnessed over the years. These unsung heroes may not have always grabbed the headlines, but their impact on the pitch is undeniable, making them the top 15 underrated players in English Premier League history.
