Best Premier League Players From Other Clubs
Our last article in the series about best Premier League players covers the most important names who have risen to prominence while playing for clubs outside of the ‘Big Six’. While the ‘Big Six’ clubs—Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Tottenham Hotspur—often dominate headlines, numerous players from other clubs have showcased remarkable prowess.
After analysing Liverpool’s creme-de-la-creme, we also had a look at Manchester United’s top legends, the top players of Arsenal in the EPL era, as well as Chelsea’s best of the best, Manchester City’s greatest Prem stars and the best Tottenham players since 1992.
Today we will be looking at the best players who have impressed Premier League fans over the years while playing their biggest parts for clubs outside of the ‘Big Six’.
Alan Shearer (Blackburn Rovers, Newcastle United)
Alan Shearer stands as the Premier League’s all-time leading goalscorer, amassing an unparalleled 260 goals. Beginning his Premier League journey with Blackburn Rovers in 1992, Shearer played a pivotal role in the club’s 1994-95 title-winning campaign, netting 34 goals that season.
In 1996, he transferred to his hometown club, Newcastle United, for a then-record fee, continuing his prolific scoring spree. Over 14 Premier League seasons, Shearer made 441 appearances, consistently demonstrating his exceptional finishing ability and leadership on the field.
Jamie Vardy (Leicester City)
Jamie Vardy’s ascent from non-league football to Premier League stardom is nothing short of inspirational. Joining Leicester City in 2012, Vardy was instrumental in the club’s fairy-tale 2015-16 Premier League title triumph, scoring 24 goals that season.
Notably, he set a Premier League record by scoring in 11 consecutive matches during that campaign. As of February 2025, Vardy has netted 143 Premier League goals in 331 appearances, solidifying his status as one of the league’s most lethal strikers.
Gareth Barry (Aston Villa)
Gareth Barry holds the distinction of the most Premier League appearances, featuring in 653 matches over a 21-year career. His tenure spanned multiple clubs, including Aston Villa, Manchester City, Everton, and West Bromwich Albion. A versatile midfielder known for his consistency and composure, Barry’s longevity and adaptability made him a mainstay in the league. Beyond his appearances, he also holds the record for the most yellow cards in Premier League history, with 125 bookings.
While he did play for Manchester City as well, it is his time with Villa that is most memorable for his influence on the Birmingham club between 1998 and 2009.
Matt Le Tissier (Southampton)
Matt Le Tissier, affectionately known as “Le God” by Southampton supporters, was celebrated for his creativity, vision, and exceptional goal-scoring ability. Spending his entire Premier League career with Southampton from 1992 to 2002, Le Tissier scored 100 goals in 270 appearances.
His loyalty to the Saints, combined with his penchant for scoring spectacular goals, especially from free-kicks and penalties, cemented his legendary status at the club.
N’Golo Kanté (Leicester City)
Before achieving global recognition with Chelsea, N’Golo Kanté was the midfield engine behind Leicester City’s miraculous 2015-16 Premier League title win. Signed from Caen in 2015, Kanté’s relentless work rate, interceptions, and tactical intelligence were crucial to Leicester’s success.
His performances that season earned him a move to Chelsea, where he continued to excel, but his foundational impact at Leicester remains a highlight of his career.
Wilfried Zaha (Crystal Palace)
A product of Crystal Palace’s youth academy, Wilfried Zaha has been the club’s standout performer for several seasons. Known for his electrifying pace, dribbling skills, and goal-scoring prowess, Zaha has been instrumental in maintaining Palace’s Premier League status.
While now he plays for French club Olympique Lyon, he has made over 300 Premier League appearances for Palace, contributing significantly in goals and assists. His loyalty and consistent performances have made him a fan favourite and a key figure in the club’s history.
Michu (Swansea City)
Spanish forward Michu made an immediate impact upon joining Swansea City in the 2012-13 season. Signed for a modest fee, he exceeded all expectations by scoring 18 Premier League goals in his debut season, playing a pivotal role in Swansea’s mid-table finish and their League Cup victory—the club’s first major trophy.
Despite his subsequent seasons being marred by injuries, Michu’s remarkable debut campaign left a lasting impression on Premier League fans.
Conclusion
These seven players exemplify the exceptional talent and dedication found beyond the Premier League‘s traditional powerhouses. Their contributions have enriched the league’s history, providing unforgettable moments and demonstrating that footballing excellence thrives across all clubs, current and former.