Chris Sutton, a renowned football expert, has recently revealed his list of favorite Premier League headed goals. In an era where such goals are becoming less common, Sutton highlights the skill and technique required to execute them effectively.
The Premier League has witnessed a significant decrease in the number of goals scored via headers. According to Mail Sport’s Matt Barlow, there were 265 headed goals in the league’s inaugural season in 1992-93. However, this number dropped by over a hundred in the last campaign. Clubs are now opting for a different style of play, favoring front three formations that prioritize agility and speed over taller targetmen in the center.
Despite this shift in tactics, there have been some remarkable headed goals in the Premier League’s history. Chris Sutton, writing for The Daily Mail alongside Ed Carruthers for Mailonline, has compiled his top-five favorite headed goals.
Didier Drogba’s diving header for Chelsea against Manchester City in 2006 secured an opening-day win. Les Ferdinand’s header for Newcastle against Manchester United in 1996 saw the ball ricochet off the crossbar and post before finding the back of the net. Javier Hernandez’s backheader for Manchester United against Stoke in 2010 showcased his instinctive finishing ability. Luis Suarez’s decision to head the ball into the top corner for Liverpool against West Brom in 2013 instead of controlling it was a display of his audacity and skill. Finally, Alan Shearer’s powerful header for Blackburn against Manchester United in 1994 left a lasting impression on Sutton, who joined Blackburn later that year.
Sutton emphasizes that scoring a headed goal requires anticipation, proper timing, and precise positioning of the head to redirect the ball into the net. Despite the decline in their frequency, these goals continue to capture the imagination of football fans worldwide.
As the Premier League evolves tactically, the art of the headed goal may become even more elusive. However, Sutton’s list serves as a reminder of the beauty and impact that can be achieved through this unique skill.
