In a league as intense and fast-paced as the English Premier League, longevity is rare. But a select few have defied age and odds to keep playing at the highest level well into their 40s. This list celebrates those incredible veterans who remained Premier League players well past their prime years. From goalkeepers to outfield legends, here are the Top 10 Oldest Premier League Players of All Time.
10. Edwin van der Sar
- Position: Goalkeeper
- Age: 40 years, 6 months & 23 days
The Dutch legend and former Manchester United goalkeeper is one of the most reliable Premier League players in history. Van der Sar extended his career well into his 40s, showcasing calmness, leadership, and elite shot-stopping until his final season in 2011.
9. Teddy Sheringham
- Position: Centre-Forward
- Age: 40 years, 8 months & 28 days
Sheringham was one of the rare outfield Premier League players to cross the 40-year mark. Known for his intelligence and goal-scoring ability, he ended his Premier League career at West Ham United, still contributing in attack at an age when most players have long retired.
8. Jens Lehmann
- Position: Goalkeeper
- Age: 41 years & 5 months
Lehmann returned to Arsenal briefly in 2011 as emergency cover, making one final Premier League appearance at age 41. Despite his age, the German international showed that experience and composure could still shine in top-flight football.
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7. Kevin Poole
- Position: Goalkeeper
- Age: 41 years, 5 months & 11 days
Poole spent most of his career as a reliable backup, but his longevity is worth noting. His final Premier League appearance came with Bolton Wanderers, making him one of the oldest Premier League players in the modern era.
6. Neville Southall
- Position: Goalkeeper
- Age: 41 years, 5 months & 25 days
The Everton icon wrapped up his Premier League career after years of top-level consistency. Southall’s final days in the league were as a backup, but his legacy as one of the top British goalkeepers remains untouched.
5. Mark Schwarzer
- Position: Goalkeeper
- Age: 42 years, 5 months & 8 days
The Australian veteran enjoyed a long career in England, featuring for Middlesbrough, Fulham, Chelsea, and Leicester City. He played his last Premier League match with Leicester, becoming one of the league’s oldest registered goalkeepers.
4. Brad Friedel
- Position: Goalkeeper
- Age: 42 years, 5 months & 23 days
Friedel was known for his incredible durability and fitness. He played consistently into his 40s for clubs like Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur. The American was a Premier League player who rarely missed a game, even in his later years.
3. Steve Ogrizovic
- Position: Goalkeeper
- Age: 42 years, 7 months & 24 days
Ogrizovic’s long-standing career with Coventry City made him a cult hero. He was a Premier League player until the very end of the 1999–2000 season, admired for his consistency and shot-stopping well past 40.
2. Alec Chamberlain
- Position: Goalkeeper
- Age: 42 years, 10 months & 23 days
Chamberlain remained part of Watford’s squad until nearly 43, even making sporadic appearances when needed. A loyal servant to the club, his name still stands high among the oldest Premier League players of all time.
1. John Burridge
- Position: Goalkeeper
- Age: 43 years, 5 months & 11 days
The oldest Premier League player ever, Burridge made his final appearance in 1995 for Manchester City. Known for his eccentric personality and remarkable longevity, his record as the oldest Premier League player still stands strong today.
Each Premier League player listed here defied the physical tolls of the game and stood as an example of longevity, professionalism, and love for football. While most players retire in their mid-30s, these men pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in top-tier football.
FAQs
Q1: Who is the oldest PL player of all time?
A: John Burridge at 43 years, 5 months & 11 days.
Q2: Who is the oldest outfield PL player?
A: Teddy Sheringham at 40 years, 8 months & 28 days.
Q3: Are goalkeepers more likely to play into their 40s?
A: Yes, most of the oldest players are goalkeepers due to the position’s physical demands being slightly lower.
Q4: Has any PL player played past 44?
A: No, as of now, no player has played beyond the age of 43.
Q5: Who was the oldest Premier League player in the 2020s?
A: Willy Caballero and Ben Foster both played into their early 40s in the 2020s.