Three Overlooked Premier League Players
The English Premier League has been the gold standard of club football for decades. While other countries like Spain or Italy bolster two or three top tier sides, the Premiership’s depth of talent is unparalleled. With a seemingly endless supply of quality footballers, it can be hard to keep track of all of the new academy products while also paying attention to the big-ticket signings. This list was compiled together in honor of the footballers who have aged out of their “wonderkid” status, play for a small club, or just don’t seem to get the love that they deserve.
Alex Iwobi- Fulham
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Despite being just 27 years old, it feels like Alex Iwobi is a Premier League veteran. The attacker burst onto the scene with Arsenal in the 2015-16 season. The Nigeria international spent his first four seasons with the Gunners. In total, Iwobi started 70 matches and tallied 11 goals for his former youth club. After leaving in 2019, the playmaker took his talents to the banks of the Mersey and joined Everton. Although his time was marked by multiple relegation battles, Iwobi became an instrumental part of Everton’s attacking force. Versatility has been Iwobi’s greatest strength throughout his career. With the ability to play most midfield positions in a bevy of different formations, the Nigerian can do it all. Iwobi manages to be a progressive playmaker while at the same time honoring his defensive responsibilities. Over the summer, the midfielder returned to London, becoming a part of a promising Fulham squad. Iwobi made his debut for The Whites in their last game against Luton Town.
Joachim Andersen- Crystal Palace
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Watch any Crystal Palace game from the last two seasons and it’ll be impossible to miss the commanding presence of Joachim Andersen. At 6' 2'', the Dane lives up to many of the traditional expectations of an EPL center-back. With no-nonsense clearances and the ability to come out on top in most aerial duels, Andersen is a puzzle for any opposition attack. While he performs his defensive duties without hesitation, the center-half has grown a reputation for his passing acumen. Equipped with a rocket of a right foot, Andersen is especially keen on finding teammates with long diagonal passes. Before making a home in South London, Andersen spent one season at Fulham where he started 30 matches. Since becoming an Eagle in 2021, the defender has established himself as a go-to matchday selection, appearing in 67 Premiership games. At 27 years old, Andersen is poised for another big season as Palace aims for a top-half finish.
Lyle Foster- Burnley
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The list started with two 27-year-olds, but now it’s time to get to some younger prospects. South African Lyle Foster has impressed through four Premier League matches thus far. The forward has already netted two goals and dished out an assist. While it might be Foster’s first time in the English top-flight, the attacker has gained important experience across Europe. He appeared in France, Belgium, Portugal, and Belgium all before making the transition to England last season. Foster joined Burnley during the January transfer window from KVC Westerlo. While a member of a Clarets side that won the EFL Championship, the South African logged one goal in 11 appearances. Despite Burnley looking to avoid relegation, Vincent Kompany still has his side playing an attacking style of football. Foster fits in perfectly with the up-tempo nature of Burnley’s gameplan. The attacker is a workhorse at the top of the pitch, chasing after passes, making runs behind, and sliding passes through for teammates.
