Best Left Backs In The World: Who Are The Top LBs In Football?

  • The role of the left-back has changed significantly over the last decade or so
  • Picking the best left backs in the world must consider attacking and defensive impact
  • Read below for the 10 top left-backs in world football

Not so long ago, left backs were a non-factor in Premier League betting odds. They might have pushed up occasionally, but they were mainly renowned for their one-on-one defensive ability.

As tactical trends have changed, though, left-backs are now some of the most important players for the best teams in the world.

The availability of Marcelo or Jordi Alba could alter football bets when the Clasico rivalry was in its pomp a few years ago. As the 2021/22 season begins, other left-backs around world football have a similar status.

No longer in the shadow of their teammates, the top left-backs in world football can rival the best Premier League midfielders of all-time for their impact. The demands are greater, and so are the rewards.

Let’s take a look at the best left-backs in the world ahead of the 2021/22 campaign…

Andy Robertson

Naming Andy Robertson as the best left-back in the world is uncontroversial at this point. He’s twice been named to the Premier League Team of the Season, and was in the UEFA Team of the Year in 2019. 

Robertson’s production from full-back is remarkable. He’s broken countless assist records, and his importance to Liverpool cannot be overstated. Jurgen Klopp’s entire system is dependent on Robertson’s energy and creativity.

Still only 27, Robertson has years left at the top of the game.

Alphonso Davies

Originally a winger, Alphonso Davies has excelled at left-back for Bayern Munich. His roadrunner pace makes him an impossible challenge for opposing defences. No winger wants to have to chase Davies down the touchline.

Davies has played his way onto this list before his 21st birthday. It would be unfair not to mention his all-round skill which makes his raw pace so dangerous.

He still has the close control and delivery of a winger, and the speed allows him to recover even when caught out of position at the back.

Luke Shaw

Once marginalised at Old Trafford, Luke Shaw is back at the centre of Premier League predictions. First choice for club and country, Shaw has begun to realise his undoubted potential, and he’s got a long time left at the top.

While it seems like he’s been around forever, the former Saint is still only in his mid-twenties.

Shaw has made massive strides defensively. He’s no longer an easy target. At the other end, he’s got the energy to provide the overlap and has always been an accomplished crosser.

While not the flashiest among these left-backs, Shaw’s place in the top 10 is undebatable.

Theo Hernandez

Standing at 6 feet tall and with exceptional pace, Theo Hernandez has the frame to be an exceptional left-back. He’s not reached his ceiling just yet, but there are signs of the player he can become.

A willing dribbler and with an eye for a pass, Hernandez is a good outlet down the left. He’s made good progress defensively, but at times he’s still a bit rash.

Ferland Mendy

Succeeding Marcelo is an unenviable task. Ferland Mendy is charged with doing so for Real Madrid. Mendy made 24 La Liga starts for Los Blancos last term, completing 1.7 dribbles per game.

The nature of Real Madrid’s play means Mendy isn’t as important as some others here. He’s supplementary rather than foundational in attack.

Defensively, though, Mendy has been a real star for Madrid and excelled in head-to-head matchups with many of the world’s best wingers.

Raphael Guerreiro

Whether in a back four, at wing-back or sliding into midfield, Raphael Guerreiro delivers for Borussia Dortmund. With 50 caps for Portugal, Guerreiro has been among the most consistent left-back performers over the last five years.

Injuries have limited his minutes at times, which perhaps contributes to him being slightly underrated, but Guerreiro was an easy pick for our top 10.

Lucas Digne

Underwhelming stints with PSG, Roma and Barcelona made it look like Lucas Digne was never going to live up to the promise he showed at Lille.

He’s found a home at Everton, though, and despite the limited success of the Toffees, he’s locked himself in as one of the three best left-backs in the Premier League.

The set pieces make the highlights, but Digne offers so much more. In Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin he has two great targets from open play, too.

Angeliño

Finally completing his permanent move to Leipzig earlier this year, Angeliño flourished under Julian Nagelsmann, completing two crosses and two key passes per game in the Bundesliga in 2020/21.

Attack is always the priority for the Spaniard, but he possesses the stamina and pace to provide defensive cover. He’s a good reader of the game, and his close control allows him to breeze past opponents.

Leonardo Spinazzola

Leonardo Spinazzola was on course to win Player of the Tournament at the Euros before he ruptured his Achilles. The injury was gutting for neutrals, such was the verve that Spinazzola injected into Italy’s matches.

His blistering runs down the left were as effective as they were fearless. It’s not just off the ball either, with the Roma left-back averaging 2.2 completed dribbles per game in Serie A last season.

Spinazzola is box office when given the freedom to attack as he did in the Euros.

Ben Chilwell

Partnered by two of the best right backs in the world, Ben Chilwell might have been second choice for England at the Euros, but he’s destined for a long and decorated career in west London.

Chilwell isn’t the most versatile attacking threat among these 10. What he does have, though, is exceptional defensive discipline and the ability to stick with even the trickiest of wingers in one-on-one situations.

Whether as a full-back or wing-back, Chilwell is a complete player, and he doesn’t turn 25 until December 2021.

*Credit for the main photo belongs to Michael Sohn / AP Photo*

 

FIRST PUBLISHED: 8th August 2021

August 8, 2021
Football
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Sam is a sports tipster, specialising in the Premier League and Champions League.

He covers most sports, including cricket and Formula One. Sam particularly enjoys those on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean – notably MLB and NBA.

Watching, writing and talking about sports betting takes up most of his time, whether that is for a day out at T20 Finals Day or a long night of basketball.

Having been writing for several years, Sam has been working with 888Sport since 2016, contributing multiple articles per week to the blog.

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Most Assists In Premier League | Most Assists In A Premier League Season

  • Ten players lead the way in all-time Premier League assists 

  • The illustrious list reads like a who’s who of top-flight legends

  • Ryan Giggs is by some distance the Premier League’s assist king

10 - Kevin De Bruyne (78)

In December 2013, Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho called a 22-year-old Kevin De Bruyne into his office and proceeded to read out some unflattering stats. ‘One assist. Zero goals. 10 recoveries’. It’s easy to imagine the withering look that followed.

https://www.888sport.com/blog/football-prediction

Just one month later the Belgian midfielder was sold to Wolfsburg whereupon he tore apart the Bundesliga before heading to the Premier League to do likewise.

Having orchestrated three league titles for Manchester City, De Bruyne is surely destined to smash the hundred assists landmark before his time is through while the latest football odds strongly tip City to finish as champions again.

His 0.44 assists per game ratio – as of March 2021 – is better than anyone else on this list. This fact presumably keeps Jose up at night.

9 - David Beckham (80)

Beckham’s trademark deliveries from the right played a key part in the enormous success Manchester United enjoyed under Sir Alex Ferguson throughout the nineties and beyond.

Whether pinged unerringly into the path of an advancing striker or whipped across the ‘corridor of uncertainty’, Beckham’s crosses were always struck with pace while their outward arc made them almost impossible to defend against.

After winning six Premier League titles with United, the player nicknamed ‘Goldenballs’ excelled at Real Madrid, Milan and PSG but its at Old Trafford where his legacy will forever shine brightest.

8 - James Milner (85)

Known for his versatility and consistency, Milner may not immediately spring to mind when the Premier League’s best playmakers are conjured up.

After all, the Liverpool veteran is admired as much for his graft as his craft, a player who always gives his all.

Yet two decades of scampering down either flank for five leading top-flight clubs has inevitably led to Milner carving out a multitude of chances while it shouldn’t be forgotten that for Leeds and later for Aston Villa, he was often employed in a central role, with creativity his sole remit.

The latest betting suggests Liverpool may struggle this season to replicate their title success in 2020. It would take a brave man to bet against Milner however adding to his assist haul.

7 - Steven Gerrard (92)

Liverpool’s long-time leader and captain is more than deserving of his legendary status despite never attaining a league crown for his hometown club and most Premier League predictions for this coming season unfortunately forecast the Reds to miss out again.

That one omission from an otherwise glittering C.V. though pales to his other achievements, that include an unforgettable night in Istanbul as Gerrard inspired his side to an unlikely comeback to win the Champions League.

On domestic duties he scored 55 goals for the Reds while the variety of his chance-creating greatly impresses. Among his number are long-range through-balls that astound.

6 - David Silva (93)

Some doubt accompanied Silva’s arrival in England. Was the Spanish magician too slight to cope with the physical demands of the Premier League? Was he too delicate?

In the event, the player known as ‘Merlin’ bent the English game to his will, bewitching and bewildering opponents with his exquisite touch, vision and magnetic control.

Across ten trophy-laden seasons for Manchester City, the artful schemer ran the show on a weekly basis and did so in a manner that even had rival supporters purring in appreciation.

5 - Dennis Bergkamp (94)

The non-flying Dutchman was named after Denis Law, a favourite player of his father who defined himself by scoring an abundance of goals.

How ironic then that Bergkamp would become a famous forward himself but admired worldwide for his creation of them.

Like Silva, Bergkamp’s high volume of assists is almost by-the-by, because what is most striking is how picturesque each was, a collection of masterpieces that helped Arsenal win three league titles and four FA Cups as Arsene Wenger’s stylish side revolutionised the domestic game.

If Wenger was the architect of football as we know it in the Premier League era, then Bergkamp was his chief engineer. 

4 - Frank Lampard (102)

Lampard’s scoring stats for a midfielder is staggering with the Chelsea legend firing home 177 from 609 top-flight appearances. Only four other players can top that, all of them predatory strikers who only truly came alive inside the six-yard box.

That Lampard is in their illustrious company despite so many of his goals deriving from late runs or being scored from distance is a remarkable feat worthy of the very highest acclaim, yet he was also an elite practitioner of the assist too.

For 13 seasons in West London, the England international served up chances galore on a platter for some of the world’s most feared and prolific strikers, all of whom he outscored for good measure.

3 - Wayne Rooney (103)

Premier League Odds has Manchester United a distant fourth favourite to win the title this season. Their odds would be an awful lot shorter however if they still had Rooney rampaging and brilliant, propelling their attack.

From a debut hat-trick, aged just 18 to a captain’s performance in his final appearance for the Reds 13 years later, Rooney was a ferocious presence up front, a player who thrived on the adventurous football demanded by Sir Alex Ferguson.

A free-kick against Stoke in his farewell season made Rooney the club’s record goal-scorer, but among the mass of goals there were also a hundred-plus assists to his name as United dominated the Premier League for nearly a generation.

2 - Cesc Fabregas (111)

In 2010, Fabregas assisted Xavi Iniesta, as the Barcelona ace scored arguably the most important goal in Spain’s history to win the World Cup for La Roja.

The Arsenal playmaker then returned to the Emirates to quietly continue feeding his forwards with gilt-edged opportunities, his vision and range of passing unparalleled.

It is no surprise that the former Gunner, who later played a pivotal role in Chelsea winning two league titles, is included on this list.

How high up he is though may raise an eyebrow or two. It shouldn’t. From arrival to departure, Fabregas was a class act.

1 - Ryan Giggs (162)

In March 2013, Giggs made his 1000th competitive appearance for Manchester United, still electrifying the left-wing despite being one of the oldest Premier League players of all time.

The landmark came a full 22 years after a fresh-faced talent made his professional debut at Old Trafford, a year before the Premier League was even formed.

In between those two events the Welsh wonder routinely terrorised full-backs, blessed with a rare combination of gifts that combined lightning pace, excellent close control and an astute footballing brain.

It’s no coincidence that Andy Cole, Ole Gunner Solskjaer and Ruud Van Nistelrooy, to name just three United forwards, accrued remarkable scoring figures playing alongside Giggs and to be so far ahead of his nearest rival unquestionably makes him the top-flight’s assist king.

*Credit for the main photo belongs to Tim Hales, File / AP Photo*

January 20, 2022
Premier League

By Stephen Tudor

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    Stephen Tudor is a freelance football writer and sports enthusiast who only knows slightly less about the beautiful game than you do.

    A contributor to FourFourTwo and Forbes, he is a Manchester City fan who was taken to Maine Road as a child because his grandad predicted they would one day be good.

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    Rugby Union Positions – Every Position On A Rugby Pitch

    • There are 15 players on a rugby union team, split into forwards and backs 

    • Unlike other sports, rugby union positions are fixed and each player has a unique role

    • Whether you’re new to rugby or a passionate union fan, our informative guide to rugby union positions can help with rugby betting picks

    First played in England in the 19th century, rugby union is one of the most popular sports in the country.

    According to World Rugby figures, there are over 100 countries as full members of the rugby union governing body and over six million people play the sport across the globe.

    How Many Positions On A Rugby Union Team?

    Plenty of punters enjoy browsing rugby union betting odds ahead of the biggest games, from Six Nations fixtures to Rugby World Cup matches.

    Bet Calculator

    One of the two codes of rugby, a union team is made up of 15 players each with the aim of running with the oval-shaped ball in hand and scoring tries against the opposing team.

    There is so much more to the sport but for now, we’re here to look at the different rugby union positions on the pitch – starting with the forwards.

    Rugby Union Forwards:

    There are a total of eight forwards on a rugby union team, with three making up the front row, two in the second row and then three back row forwards, otherwise known as ‘loose forwards’.

    Learning more about rugby union positions not only helps online betting knowledge but also develops a greater understanding into the sport and what each role entails.

    Loosehead Prop

    Donning the number 1 jersey, the Loosehead prop is positioned on the left of the three front row forwards in the scrum.

    The loosehead is a rugby union position that is well-suited to strong, heavy players and it is very intense on the body – being a prop is no walk in the park.

    Props need a thick neck and immense upper body strength and they must be able to keep a cool head under pressure.

    Hooker

    The hooker co-ordinates the timing of engagement at the scrum and has a responsibility to retain possession by hooking the ball back.

    In addition, a hooker conducts the lineout and throwing accuracy is vital for any budding number 2. Ball retention at lineouts is essential.

    Hookers are regularly involved in open play, carrying the ball in a similar way to the props and controlling possession in mauls and battling for hard yards in the trenches.

    Tighthead Prop

    The third and final front row forward is the tighthead prop. Wearing the number 3 jersey, this rugby union position is on the right of the scrum.

    Like the loosehead role, the tighthead prop position is gruelling and puts a lot of pressure on the body – particularly when it comes to set pieces.

    Tighthead props are often smaller, stocky players who are built with strength in mind to try and win the scrum battle.

    Left Lock

    One of two second-row forwards, the left lock wears the number 4 shirt. In scrums, the left lock supports and pushes from behind the props and hooker.

    Most rugby union position guides recognise that the left lock role is suited to taller players who are reliable and consistent in lineout situations.

    The left lock is often tasked with using their frame to jump up and win possession at the lineout, as well as catching the ball after kickoff.

    Right Lock

    Yep, you guessed it – the right lock is the other second row forward. Donning the number 5 on the back of the shirt, the right lock has a slightly different role.

    Traditionally, right locks boast explosive power and take on a greater ball-carrying role while also wreaking havoc at rucks in a bid to win back possession.

    If one of the locks is dominating the ruck area, in play betting odds can swing massively so keep a close eye on the lock positions.

    Blindside Flanker

    One of the rugby union positions with the fewest set responsibilities, the blindside flanker requires a player with excellent all-round skills and energy.

    The flankers do the dirty work at the ruck and maul and are often defensively solid, making more tackles than anyone else on a rugby pitch.

    The blindside flanker is often bigger and more physical than the openside player, though both are equally as important when it comes to winning turnovers.

    Openside Flanker

    The openside flanker plays on the side of the scrum furthest from the touchline and is often much smaller and more dynamic than the blindside flanker.

    Often mobile and energetic across the pitch, the openside flanker often covers more ground than any of his teammates.

    While flankers are rarely involved in many try-scoring situations, they certainly make up for that with their defensive prowess in the middle of the field.

    Number 8

    Like the flankers, the number 8’s main role is to support the fellow forwards while taking on more responsibility when it comes to carrying the ball and making ground.

    The number 8 controls the back of the scrum and is the sole forward player who is legally allowed to collect the ball from the base of the scrum.

    Some of the greatest rugby players of all-time have played at number 8. This player is often explosive, dynamic and tough – making them the ultimate competitor.

    Rugby Union Backs:

    While the forwards are regarded as the most powerful players on the pitch, the rugby union positions in the backs are more skilful roles for agile, creative players.

    In many cases, these players get most of the credit as they score more tries and are heavily involved in the attacking phase of the game.

    Scrum Half

    The scrum half has an important role to play, acting as the link between the forwards and backs and often controlling the tempo of an attack.

    Box-kicking is a key skill for this rugby union position while accurate passing when feeding the ball to the fly-half is also absolutely essential.

    Vision, speed and awareness are required for any good scrum half and one of the main jobs for the forwards is to protect this playmaker from opposing flankers.

    Fly Half

    Arguably the most influential position on the pitch, a world class fly half can be the difference between success and failure.

    The greatest rugby union teams in history have all had an exceptional fly half in the squad and the number 10 is the heartbeat of any side.

    Controlling the tempo of the game and decision-making are two of the main traits required for a fly half – and they are often the designated place kickers as well.

    Left Wing

    From the most influential position to the easiest position on the pitch, a winger is expected to score tries and create opportunities in attack.

    Wingers are often forced to come inside and get involved in play if they are left out of the game on the touchline, though they risk going up against bigger players.

    Furthermore, the winger has a responsibility to remain disciplined on the touchline – the chance for an interception is tempting but get it wrong and your wing is exposed.

    Inside Centre

    The inside centre plays closest to the fly half in a conventional backs line up, with the main role to break down the defensive line and create space and opportunities in attack.

    Defensively, they must be accomplished but the main area of focus for an inside centre is going forward – which is why many fly half stars often make the transition to 12.

    Direct lines and dummy runs can help to confuse opposing defences and a powerful style is an absolute must for any rugby union inside centre.

    Outside Centre

    The outside centre is often stronger and offers a more powerful, explosive option than the inside centre, though both tend to run direct lines in attacking phases of play.

    Outside centres don’t tend to kick in possession, with the number 13 preferring to utilise speed and power alongside the wingers.

    Offloading is a key component for any outside centre and the best players in the world are often in the 12 or 13 role – this is a particularly skilled rugby union position.

    Right Wing

    The right winger has the same responsibilities as the left winger – scoring tries and defending your wing is the main role for any decent number 14.

    Speed and agility are two of the main traits needed to be a successful winger and this is one of the more unforgiving rugby union positions if you are slightly slow off the mark.

    In addition, coping under aerial bombardment is also a must for any winger as the opposing fly half will often test players early on, particularly in adverse weather.

    Full Back

    Finally, we have the full back. Essentially working as a sweeper in defence, the full back has to cover plenty of ground on a rugby pitch.

    Receiving deep kicks from opponents, catching high balls and launching counter attacks in possession, the full back needs to have a wide skillset and must remain composed.

    The teams at the top of the rugby world rankings all have component full backs. This rugby union position is the ultimate test of a player’s talent.

    *Credit for the main photo belongs to Halden Krog / AP Photo*

    August 2, 2021
    Rugby

    By Alex McMahon

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    Alex is a sports betting tipster, specialising in Premier League football, the Champions League and horse racing.

    He loves placing a weekly accumulator on the football at the weekend and dreams of landing the big winner that will take him back to Las Vegas.

    As well as writing sports betting tips for 888sport since 2015, Alex has produced content for several international media companies, such as Goal.com and The SPORTBible. 
     

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    Futbol24 Livescores - Free Goal Updates, Match Results & Futbol 24 Live Scores

    • The Futbol24 livescore website is one of the best goal update pages around

    • From free goal updates on the Futbol24 app to football predictions, Futbol 24 live scores are available all year round

    • Millions of fans use Futbol24 live scores for the latest results, goals and match updates for the biggest games

    Futbol24 call themselves the ‘fastest and most reliable live score service’ on the internet and they certainly provide an exceptional service for football fans around the world.

    From the Futbol24 app to live scores and tailor-made Futbol predictions, the platform is one of the biggest free soccer score websites on the internet.

    Plenty of football betting punters will have used Futbol24 and other livescore sites to follow the latest goal updates, match results and soccer live scores across the biggest leagues in the sport.

    Unlike other live score websites, Futbol 24 focus solely on football livescores, results and fixtures – making it the perfect place for soccer fans to follow goals as they go in.

    Without further ado, it is time to take a closer look at the Futbol24 webpage. One of the best websites around for live football scores, it is a must visit for any football supporter.

    Futbol24 Countries

    According to the official Futbol24 website, football fans can find the latest goal updates and free football results from over 100 countries around the world.

    So whether you’re a fan of European football or enjoy soccer in South America, Futbol24 is the best place for live goals and score updates every weekend.

    In addition, online sports betting punters can find the biggest competitions from across the continent – whether that’s at club level or international.

    While some live score websites focus mainly on the top European leagues, Futbol24 offers soccer fans a wide range of leagues, tournaments and competitions in the sport.

    The Futbol 24 live score website is perfect for casual football fans but also has enough depth and information for the millions of passionate supporters across the globe.

    Futbol24 App

    In today’s day and age, football fans like to follow the latest livescore updates and goal news via mobile devices rather than desktop and that is where the Futbol24 app comes in.

    With over 100 leagues and countries covered from all over the world, the Futbol 24 live score app is one of the best places for supporters to follow goals, results and predictions.

    Free to download and rated highly by users, the Futbol24 app is a must download for every football fan – it is the easiest way to track multiple live match updates each weekend.

    It is the perfect platform for punters, with the opportunity to select specific games and live goal updates on Futbol24 can help you track European football tips and results on your Saturday accumulator.

    The app functions well and is one of the top-rated football live score platforms available for mobile users. So, what are you waiting for? Get the Futbol24 app today!

    Futbol24 Compare Teams

    The Futbol24 website has a compare teams function, which allows punters to check recent results, form guides, head to head records and over/under 2.5 goals statistics.

    Some of the statistics available on Futbol24 are useful for punters looking to bet on football and the opportunity to compare team statistics and results cannot be overlooked.

    There are plenty of football team comparison websites on the internet but the Futbol 24 live score platform is on another level – the best statistics are available in one place.

    The Futbol24 compare teams function includes pre-season friendly results and goal updates too, which can also prove useful when placing an outright long term season bet.

    Obviously statistics aren’t everything, especially when it comes to head to head results, but this particular feature helps separate Futbol24 from their competitors in the live football score industry.

    Futbol24 Predictions

    With so many statistics, fixtures and results available at the touch of a button, Futbol24 is a must visit when making a football prediction on an upcoming match.

    The head to head record information on the Futbol24 website is regularly updated and this can be the difference between success and failure when it comes to sports betting.

    In many cases, they often preview the biggest matches and offer punters an insight into the Futbol24 predictions ahead of El Clasico, the Old Firm and the Manchester Derby.

    However, Futbol24 recognise that every top flight fixture is important and there is often an extensive pre-match report with a Futbol 24 live score prediction on the outcome.

    Remember to always trust your own opinion when betting on football but the facts, figures and statistics available from Futbol24 can certainly help to justify your decision.

    Check All Live Betting Odds Here!

    *Credit for all of the photos in this article belongs to AP Photo*

     

    August 14, 2023
    Football

    By Alex McMahon

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    Alex is a sports betting tipster, specialising in Premier League football, the Champions League and horse racing.

    He loves placing a weekly accumulator on the football at the weekend and dreams of landing the big winner that will take him back to Las Vegas.

    As well as writing sports betting tips for 888sport since 2015, Alex has produced content for several international media companies, such as Goal.com and The SPORTBible. 
     

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    Alan Shearer Net Worth – How Much Is Alan Shearer Worth?

    • Alan Shearer is the Premier League’s greatest ever goal scorer.

    • After retiring as a player, he has forged a successful new career as a TV pundit.

    • One of the game’s greatest strikers has naturally accumulated a large net worth.

    Alan Shearer, born in Newcastle in August 1970, remains one of the greatest Premier League strikers, and the competition’s record goal scorer.

    He grew up playing football on the streets, but after being spotted by a Southampton scout at a local club his journey to greatness began. It’s a journey that included hundreds of goals, many for his boyhood club Newcastle United.

    After retiring as a player, Shearer has turned his hand to football punditry after a brief spell as Newcastle United manager failed to prevent their relegation. His huge net worth is indicative of his success and reputation in the sport.

    How much is Alan Shearer worth?

    Alan Shearer has a net worth of £40m, a figure built up from a successful career on and off the pitch.

    The Premier League’s record goal scorer was able to demand premium wages, to compliment the record transfer fees needed to acquire his services.

    At Blackburn, owner Jack Walker invested millions to gain success, culminating in a league title that would have raised Shearer’s profile further.

    When he joined Newcastle he negotiated a £34,000 a week deal, a huge amount at the time. As wages rose during the Premier League era, so did his.

    Add to this, millions made from sponsorship deals, and he was able to build up significant wealth, even after retiring.

    As a respected Match of the Day pundit on the BBC, Shearer receives £390,000 a year, to add to a 15-year deal with Umbro as one of their ambassadors, that nets him a cool £1.3m per year.

    Alan Shearer Wife

    While playing for Southampton early in his career, Alan Shearer met Lainya, who would become his wife.

    They initially lived at her parents in Southampton as Alan made his name in football on just £35 a week. In June 1991 the couple married, meaning they have now been happily wed for over 30 years.

    Lainya does not court publicity, making a rare appearance at Alan’s Newcastle testimonial match, and it has been reported that she feels considerable discomfort at the public profile of her husband. It is not surprising therefore that she avoids social media platforms.

    Alan has commented in the past that his love for Lainya and their children has been a key reason for him turning down moves to foreign clubs in the past.

    This was due to his reluctance to uproot his family, and maintain a stable lifestyle, leading to him breaking many a Premier League record.

    Alan Shearer Kids

    Alan and his wife have three children together – Hollie, Chloe and Will. All three have reached adulthood, with the youngest Will now in his twenties.

    Of the three, it is Hollie that has the most public profile, as she is a singer of pop and country songs trying to find success in the music industry.

    She released her first single in 2020. It seems that Alan has passed on some of his sporting prowess to his son Will, but it is rugby union that he looks to excel at. As for Chloe, she is forging a career as a sports agent.

    The three children generally keep a low profile aside from work commitments, and are clearly close to their parents, often holidaying together.

    Chloe and Will have been keen supporters of their father’s charity endeavours too in the past, running a half-marathon in 2017 in aid of the Alan Shearer Foundation.

    Alan Shearer Premier League goals

    Shearer scored 283 goals during his league career, all of them in the top-flight of English football. His total in the Premier League was 260, with 23 goals scored in the old First Division.

    The statistics tell their own story – a record 11 hat-tricks and 422 goals in all competitions. The record is even more remarkable considering that he recovered from two serious injuries during his career.

    His 260 Premier goals put him 52 goals ahead of Wayne Rooney, the second highest goal scorer in Premier League history.

    The only current player who may surpass his total of most Premier League goals is Harry Kane, who will begin the 2021/22 season 94 goals behind.

    What’s more, Shearer could score all types of goals. Long range shots, tap-ins, or headers: he was a complete centre forward.

    Newcastle United could certainly use him right now, Premier League odds suggesting further struggles for the Magpies during the 2021/22 season.

    Alan Shearer Euro 96

    The Euro 96 campaign is one that lives long in the memory for England fans, a bittersweet experience for Alan Shearer and teammates.

    Home advantage raised expectations, though football betting odds suggested England were far from favourites, and hopes of a first trophy in 30 years for the Three Lions were cruelly dashed by a penalty shoot-out defeat against Germany in the semi-final.

    For Shearer though the tournament was a success, considering he was without an international goal in two years. It took him 23 minutes against Switzerland to break that duck.

    He would follow that up with a goal against Scotland and a brace versus Holland as England topped their group.

    In the knockout stages, he would score an important goal in the penalty shoot-out against Spain, the opening goal against Germany, and a penalty in the shoot-out. 

    Ultimately it was not enough, and England fell just short. Shearer’s reputation however was further enhanced.

    Alan Shearer Celebration

    During his illustrious career, Shearer became known for his unique goal celebration, which of course fans got to see on a regular basis. It was a simple raise of his right arm to the air as he wheeled away from goal.

    The celebration was immortalised on numerous occasions during and after his playing days. A huge banner, depicting Shearer as the ‘Gallowgate Giant’ as he celebrated a goal, was unfurled on the side of Newcastle’s ground to mark over a decade at the club.

    A more permanent reminder of the celebration can be seen outside St James’ Park, by observing a statue called ‘Local Hero’ that was erected in 2016 to commemorate their world-class No 9.

    There was controversy over the statue pose, as Shearer traditionally raised his arm with a flat hand but he later explained that he raised a finger too on occasion, as portrayed in the statue.

    *Credit for the main photo belongs to Lynne Sladky / AP Photo*

     

    FIRST PUBLISHED: 29th July 2021

    July 29, 2021
    888Business

    By Stephen Tudor

    Ste Tudor
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    Stephen Tudor is a freelance football writer and sports enthusiast who only knows slightly less about the beautiful game than you do.

    A contributor to FourFourTwo and Forbes, he is a Manchester City fan who was taken to Maine Road as a child because his grandad predicted they would one day be good.

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    Arsenal vs Chelsea: Rivalry, Head To Head Record & Statistics

    • The Arsenal vs Chelsea rivalry began with their first meeting in 1907
    • The Gunners have the edge all-time with 79 wins to Chelsea’s 66
    • It has swung in Chelsea’s favour over the last couple of decades, however

    When it comes to football betting in England, Arsenal vs Chelsea is one of the biggest matchups. It’s on that select list of matches that stand out when the fixture list is released.

    They might not always be at the top of the outright Premier League odds, but these are two of England’s most well-known clubs. Boasting fan bases on every continent, Arsenal vs Chelsea matches are watched all over the planet.

    In-play betting has been tricky between these two teams. The unpredictable has become normal. We’ve witnessed cup final drama and wrongly handed out red cards.

    Like so many derbies, the result is often anomalous in the pattern of the season. With a bit of history and statistics, here’s a run down of Arsenal vs Chelsea.

    Arsenal vs Chelsea Rivalry

    The foundation of the Arsenal vs Chelsea rivalry is London. Even in the early years, the fact it was two London teams matching up meant there was an inkling of a rivalry. That, of course, continued to grow over the following decades.

    Having simmered for a long time, the tensions reached boiling point around 20 years ago.

    Inspired by Gianluca Vialli and Gus Poyet, Chelsea beat Arsenal 5-0 in the League Cup. This was the height of Arsenal as a force, and they went from strength to strength in the following years.

    The Arsenal Invincibles followed. The Gunners were the (literally) unbeatable force in English football, and they extended an extraordinary run against Chelsea.

    Wayne Bridge’s famous goal in the Champions League was a turning point for the north versus west relations.

    It signalled a change of power in the capital, and a few months later, Jose Mourinho arrived at Stamford Bridge. The self-titled ‘Special One’ made it a personal mission to rile up the Gunners faithful and Arsene Wenger.

    The Mourinho and Wenger days were the golden age for this rivalry. Changes to the squads since then have removed some of the hostility.

    Geography will always keep things fired up between these two teams. If there was any risk of that waning, Arsenal’s two recent FA Cup final wins against Chelsea have sprinkled some petrol on the century-long bonfire.

    Arsenal vs Chelsea Head to Head

    It’s a comfortable lead for Arsenal in the all-time head-to-head record against Chelsea. Their 79 wins puts them 13 clear of their London foes. This is a long-running advantage which Chelsea have never really been able to make up.

    Arsenal have had prolonged periods of positive results against Chelsea in the 1920s, 1970s and early-2000s.

    Chelsea have fought back in the Roman Abramovich era, racking up 22 of their 66 wins since the takeover, but they still have a long way to go to reach parity.

    Interestingly, the goals scored totals are much more reasonable. Chelsea are just 16 goals all-time behind Arsenal, which is pretty much neck-and-neck considering they have faced each other over 200 times.

    • Arsenal wins vs Chelsea: 79
    • Arsenal vs Chelsea draws: 59
    • Chelsea wins vs Arsenal: 66
    • Arsenal goals vs Chelsea: 285
    • Chelsea goals vs Arsenal: 269

    Arsenal vs Chelsea Premier League Results

    It’s fair to say the Premier League era of Arsenal vs Chelsea can be broken into distinct chunks. Each have enjoyed periods of supremacy, with Arsenal going unbeaten against Chelsea in all competitions from January 1999 until April 2004.

    Following that win in 2004, however, Chelsea succeeded the Gunners at the top of English football. The Blues embarked on a special run against Arsenal. They lost just twice in their next 17 matches against their bitter rivals.

    There have been other streaks in both directions since then, though neither were as dramatic. Despite their struggles in recent seasons, Arsenal have become Chelsea’s bogey team. Chelsea have lost three and drawn once in their last four meetings.

    The overall Premier League record is very close. The on-pitch element of this rivalry has lived up to the billing in the Premier League era.

    Arsenal vs Chelsea Premier League H2H

    • Arsenal wins vs Chelsea: 22
    • Arsenal vs Chelsea draws: 17
    • Chelsea wins vs Arsenal: 19

    Arsenal vs Chelsea Premier League Goals

    • Arsenal Premier League goals vs Chelsea: 77
    • Chelsea Premier League goals vs Arsenal: 78

    Next Arsenal vs Chelsea Match

    The next Arsenal vs Chelsea match is on 22nd August 2021 at the Emirates Stadium. Arsenal are aiming to make it four consecutive wins against Chelsea in all competitions for the first time since 2004.

    They have won 14 and lost just six of their home Premier League matches against Chelsea. The early days of the Premier League were all Arsenal – they were unbeaten in their first 13 home matches against Chelsea.

    Next Chelsea vs Arsenal Match

    The next Chelsea vs Arsenal match is on 12th February 2022 at Stamford Bridge. The Blues are looking for revenge, having not beaten Arsenal at home in the Premier League since 2018.

    These are matches Chelsea need to win if they are to lift the Premier League trophy in 2022. They have won 13 of their 29 home matches against Arsenal since the Premier League was founded in 1992.

    Biggest Arsenal win vs Chelsea

    • Arsenal 5-1 Chelsea, November 1930

    Biggest Chelsea win vs Arsenal

    • Chelsea 6-0 Arsenal, March 2014

    Most Arsenal vs Chelsea goals

    It’s Didier Drogba. The Ivorian was Arsenal’s nemesis. He scored big goals in cup competitions, he dominated them in the Premier League, and his presence alone sent shivers down the spines of Arsenal fans worldwide.

    Drogba scored 13 times for Chelsea against Arsenal. There was a mix of individual goals, free-kick wonder strikes and moments of technical mastery.

    Few players have had a psychological advantage over an opponent quite like Drogba had over Arsenal. Whoever played at the back, it was inevitable he would score.

    *Credit for the main photo belongs to Catherine Ivil / Pool via AP*

     

    FIRST PUBLISHED: 28th July 2021

    July 28, 2021
    Premier League
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    Sam is a sports tipster, specialising in the Premier League and Champions League.

    He covers most sports, including cricket and Formula One. Sam particularly enjoys those on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean – notably MLB and NBA.

    Watching, writing and talking about sports betting takes up most of his time, whether that is for a day out at T20 Finals Day or a long night of basketball.

    Having been writing for several years, Sam has been working with 888Sport since 2016, contributing multiple articles per week to the blog.

    Sam Cox
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