Poorest Performing Teams in EPL History

Since its inception in 1992, the English Premier League has witnessed numerous teams battling to maintain their top-flight status. While some clubs have narrowly escaped the drop, others have endured seasons marked by poor performances, culminating in relegation.

As we continue our series of articles on relegation battles, inspired by the poor form shown by some of this season’s promoted teams (looking at you, Southampton and Leicester), this article goes into some of the most challenging seasons faced by the worst Premier League teams in history, highlighting their struggles and the factors contributing to their downturns.

Derby County (2007–08)

Derby County’s 2007–08 campaign is often cited as the poorest in Premier League history. The Rams secured a mere 11 points over the season, a record low since the league’s formation.

Their solitary victory came against Newcastle United in September 2007. Throughout the season, Derby managed only eight draws and suffered 29 defeats, scoring just 20 goals while conceding 89. This dismal performance led to their relegation being confirmed as early as March 2008, making them the first club in Premier League history to be relegated in that month.

Sunderland (2005–06)

Sunderland’s 2005–06 season was fraught with difficulties. The Black Cats accumulated only 15 points, with three wins, six draws, and 29 losses. They struggled both offensively and defensively, netting 26 goals and conceding 69. This performance mirrored their earlier relegation in the 2002–03 season, where they also finished with 19 points.

Aston Villa (2015–16)

Aston Villa, a club with a rich history, faced a tumultuous 2015–16 season. They finished at the bottom of the table with 17 points, securing only three wins, eight draws, and enduring 27 defeats.

The team struggled to find the back of the net, scoring 27 goals, while their defense conceded 76. This season marked the end of their 28-year stay in the top flight.

Portsmouth (2009–10)

Portsmouth’s 2009–10 season was marred by financial issues, leading to a nine-point deduction for entering administration. Even without this penalty, the team would have finished at the bottom, having garnered just 19 points from seven wins, five draws, and 26 losses.

They scored 34 goals and conceded 66. Despite their league struggles, Portsmouth reached the FA Cup final that season, showcasing a stark contrast between their cup and league performances.

Huddersfield Town (2018–19)

Huddersfield Town’s 2018–19 campaign was challenging, with the team finishing the season with 16 points, securing three wins, seven draws, and suffering 28 defeats. They managed to score only 22 goals while conceding 76.

Their relegation was already confirmed in March 2019, making them one of the earliest relegated teams in Premier League history.

Sheffield United (2020–21)

After an impressive return to the Premier League in the 2019–20 season, Sheffield United faced a stark decline in 2020–21. The Blades finished with 23 points, achieving seven wins, two draws, and enduring 29 losses.

They scored 20 goals and conceded 63. Their struggles were evident throughout the season, leading to their relegation after a two-season stay in the top flight.

Swindon Town (1993–94)

In their inaugural Premier League season, Swindon Town faced significant challenges. The team finished at the bottom of the table with 30 points, securing five wins, 15 draws, and suffering 22 defeats.

Defensively, they conceded a staggering 100 goals, by far the highest in the league that season (second-highest being Oldham’s 68), while scoring 47. Their defensive frailties were a primary factor in their immediate relegation.

Watford (1999–2000)

Watford’s 1999–2000 season saw them finish at the bottom with 24 points, achieving six wins, six draws, and 26 losses. The team scored 35 goals and conceded 77. Despite a promising start, including a victory over Liverpool at Anfield, consistency eluded them, leading to their relegation after just one season in the Premier League.

Sunderland (2002–03)

Sunderland’s 2002–03 campaign was particularly disheartening. The team finished with 19 points, managing four wins, seven draws, and 27 losses. They scored 21 goals and conceded 65.

A run of 15 consecutive defeats towards the end of the season sealed their fate, marking one of the longest losing streaks in Premier League history.

Norwich City (2019–20)

Norwich City returned to the Premier League in the 2019–20 season but struggled to adapt to the rigours of top-flight football. They finished with 21 points, securing five wins, six draws, and suffering 27 defeats.

The Canaries scored 26 goals and conceded 75. Despite some spirited performances, a lack of defensive solidity contributed to their immediate relegation.

Conclusion

The Premier League‘s competitive nature ensures that only the most prepared and resilient teams maintain their status. The aforementioned seasons serve as cautionary tales, highlighting the challenges clubs face at the highest