Ranking the Top 10 Greatest Asian Players in Premier League History

This article ranks the top 10 Asian players in Premier League history, highlighting their influence and contributions to their teams. Key criteria for ranking include total appearances, trophies won, and overall importance to their respective clubs. This list features notable players like Park Ji-Sung, Heung-min Son, and Shinji Okazaki, showcasing their skills and achievements in England’s top football league.

The Premier League has featured numerous exceptional Asian players since its establishment in 1992. Some notable players include Sun Jihai, a distinguished attacker for Manchester City, and current star Heung-min Son from Tottenham Hotspur, who has formed a crucial partnership with Harry Kane before his departure. GIVEMESPORT aims to explore iconic Asian players who have left significant marks in the league’s history while recognizing forgotten talents.

To rank these players, key criteria are considered, including appearances, trophies, and their importance to their teams. For instance, Park Ji-Sung may have fewer appearances at Manchester United compared to Son at Tottenham, yet his influence on the team’s success supersedes his participation numbers. Key factors in the rankings reflect a balance between quantity and quality of contributions.

Top 10 Asian Players in the Premier League
1. Park Ji-Sung (South Korea) – Teams: Manchester United, QPR
Appearances: 154
2. Heung-min Son (South Korea) – Team: Tottenham Hotspur
Appearances: 290
3. Shinji Okazaki (Japan) – Team: Leicester City
Appearances: 114
4. Ali Al-Habsi (Oman) – Teams: Bolton, Wigan
Appearances: 111
5. Maya Yoshida (Japan) – Team: Southampton
Appearances: 154
6. Lee Chung-Yong (South Korea) – Teams: Bolton, Crystal Palace
Appearances: 105
7. Shinji Kagawa (Japan) – Team: Manchester United
Appearances: 38
8. Ki Sung-Yueng (South Korea) – Teams: Swansea, Sunderland, Newcastle
Appearances: 187
9. Sun Jihai (China) – Team: Manchester City
Appearances: 123
10. Neil Etheridge (Philippines) – Team: Cardiff City
Appearances: 38

Neil Etheridge represented the Philippines in the Premier League during the 2018-19 season with Cardiff City. Despite a relegation battle, Etheridge emerged as a top performer, recording ten clean sheets, placing him among the league’s top goalkeepers. He has been a national team mainstay since 2008 and is currently at Birmingham City.

Sun Jihai, often overlooked, is one of China’s finest talents. Playing primarily as a defender for Manchester City from 2002-2008, he won the club’s Player of the Season award and was lauded for his attacking flair. Injuries and managerial changes eventually led to his departure but not before he made a lasting impression.

Ki Sung-Yueng showcased his prowess primarily with Swansea City, winning the League Cup in 2013 and earning admiration for his midfield skills. Although he struggled for playtime at Sunderland and Newcastle, his influence at Swansea cemented his position as an essential player.

Shinji Kagawa came to England from Borussia Dortmund with high expectations but demonstrated inconsistent form at Manchester United. He contributed to the team’s Premier League title in 2012/13, becoming the first Japanese player to secure this trophy despite scoring only six goals during his tenure.

Lee Chung-Yong, famously known as a cult hero at Bolton, had a notable impact upon his arrival in 2009, winning Player of the Season. Unfortunately, a severe injury hampered his career, leading to a diminished role as the club faced relegation.

Maya Yoshida faced criticism early on at Southampton but gradually established himself as a key player, even helping to stave off relegation during challenging seasons. His tenure concluded amidst the club’s struggles, but he remains an important figure in Japanese football history.

Ali Al-Habsi had a sizeable career in English football, primarily at Bolton and Wigan, where he helped win the FA Cup in 2013. After struggling for game time early on, he eventually became a respected goalkeeper, demonstrating resilience and skill.

Shinji Okazaki played a crucial role during Leicester City’s miraculous 2015/16 title win, being recognized for his tireless work ethic rather than goal count. His contributions earned him the Asian Player of the Year award, acknowledging his influence in a historic season.

Son Heung-Min is a standout performer in contemporary football, establishing records and achieving personal accolades since joining Tottenham in 2015. Not only is he a key player for the team, but he has also notably become the first Asian footballer to reach 100 Premier League goals.

Park Ji-Sung remains a legendary figure in Premier League history, winning numerous titles with Manchester United, including three Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy. His contributions, characterized by significant playtime and essential assists, have solidified his legacy as one of the top Asian players in the league.