The Premier League’s Oldest Goal Scorers: Legends Who Defied Age
Prince Jean
Dec 5, 2024
Teddy Sheringham celebrates his record-breaking goal for West Ham at 40 years old. Credit:gettyimages
The Premier League has seen some extraordinary players push the boundaries of age, scoring memorable goals in their late 30s and even their 40s. Let’s take a look at the 20 oldest scorers in Premier League history, with Teddy Sheringham leading the pack.
1. Teddy Sheringham (West Ham vs Portsmouth, 26 December 2006) – 40 years, 268 days
Teddy Sheringham holds the record as the oldest Premier League scorer, netting for West Ham against Portsmouth on Boxing Day in 2006. At 40 years and 268 days old, Sheringham showcased his remarkable longevity in the game. This was his 146th and final Premier League goal, capping a career that included stints at Tottenham, Manchester United, and Portsmouth. Notably, Sheringham also scored several of the league’s other oldest goals, cementing his place in history.
2. Dean Windass (Hull City vs Portsmouth, 22 November 2008) – 39 years, 235 days
Dean Windass made history for Hull City, becoming their oldest Premier League scorer with a late equalizer against Portsmouth during the 2008-09 season. Windass had already written his name in Hull’s history the previous year, scoring the decisive goal in the Championship play-off final to secure their promotion. Although his Premier League appearances were limited, Windass left an indelible mark, even as Hull narrowly avoided relegation.
3. Thiago Silva (Chelsea vs Sheffield United, 7 April 2024) – 39 years, 198 days
Thiago Silva, known for his composure and leadership, scored for Chelsea with a header from a Conor Gallagher corner. Despite Chelsea’s struggles during the 2023-24 season, Silva was a consistent performer in his four years at Stamford Bridge. After leaving the Premier League, Silva returned to Brazil, where he now captains Fluminense.
4. Ashley Young (Everton vs Wolves, 4 December 2024) – 39 years, 148 days
Ashley Young scored his 50th Premier League goal with a brilliant free-kick for Everton against Wolves. This milestone also made him the fourth-oldest scorer in Premier League history. Young’s achievement was especially remarkable as he became only the sixth player to reach 50 goals without ever scoring a header.
5. Ryan Giggs (Man Utd vs QPR, 23 February 2013) – 39 years, 86 days
Ryan Giggs, Manchester United’s legendary winger, scored his final Premier League goal in February 2013 against Queens Park Rangers. This strike helped Manchester United secure a commanding lead in the title race during Sir Alex Ferguson’s farewell season. Giggs remains the record-holder for the most Premier League titles won by a player, with 13.
6. Stuart Pearce (West Ham vs Southampton, 25 November 2000) – 38 years, 215 days
Stuart “Psycho” Pearce scored a classic left-footed strike for West Ham against Southampton in 2000. Known for his fiery passion and robust playing style, Pearce’s career spanned over two decades, with his best years coming during his 12-season stint at Nottingham Forest.
The Oldest Hat-Trick in Premier League History
Teddy Sheringham also holds the record for the oldest Premier League hat-trick. He scored three goals for Portsmouth against Bolton Wanderers in 2003 at 37 years and 146 days old. Cristiano Ronaldo came close to breaking this record in 2022 with a hat-trick against Norwich City, but he fell short by just 76 days.
A Legacy of Longevity
The players on this list are testaments to endurance, skill, and the ability to perform at the highest level despite their age. From Teddy Sheringham’s ageless goals to Ashley Young’s incredible free-kick, these moments remind us that age is just a number in football.
