Fastest players to reach 100 Premier League goals

Reaching 100 goals in the Premier League is one of the toughest achievements for any striker. It’s a milestone that only the most consistent and clinical forwards ever manage to reach. But doing it fast — in as few games as possible — is what separates the great from the truly legendary. Here’s a look at the fastest ten players to hit the century mark in England’s top flight, ranked from tenth to first.

=9. Andy Cole – 185 appearances

Andy Cole was the definition of a Premier League predator. Known for his sharp movement and ruthless finishing, Cole hit 100 goals in 185 matches — a testament to his consistency at both Newcastle United and Manchester United. He thrived during United’s dominant 1990s era, forming a deadly partnership with Dwight Yorke that terrified defences across England. Cole’s ability to finish with either foot and his understanding of space made him one of the most dangerous forwards of his generation.

=9. Michael Owen – 185 appearances

A teenage sensation at Liverpool, Michael Owen was electric from the moment he burst onto the scene. His pace, agility, and composure in front of goal made him one of England’s most exciting talents in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Owen’s 100th goal came in just 185 appearances, a mark that highlighted his natural instincts and ability to score from almost any situation. Injuries may have hindered the latter part of his career, but his early years remain among the Premier League’s most memorable.

8. Les Ferdinand – 178 appearances

Les Ferdinand combined strength, aerial dominance, and technical ability in a way few strikers could. His journey to 100 Premier League goals took just 178 games, achieved across spells with Queens Park Rangers and Newcastle United. Ferdinand was renowned for his powerful headers and intelligent positioning inside the box. His consistency and professionalism made him a fan favourite and one of the most respected forwards of the 1990s.

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7. Robbie Fowler – 175 appearances

Nicknamed “God” by Liverpool fans, Robbie Fowler was a natural-born finisher who made scoring look effortless. He reached 100 goals in just 175 appearances, thanks to his incredible instinct and ability to find the net with both power and precision. Fowler’s finishing was clinical, whether from distance or close range, and his flair made him one of the most admired strikers in the league. His performances in the mid-90s remain some of the finest seen at Anfield.

6. Ian Wright – 173 appearances

Before he became one of football’s most beloved pundits, Ian Wright was a lethal goalscorer for Arsenal. It took him only 173 matches to reach 100 Premier League goals — an extraordinary achievement given he didn’t play in the top flight until his late 20s. Wright’s energy, passion, and knack for scoring in big moments made him a hero at Highbury. His finishing instinct and charismatic style cemented his legacy as one of the league’s most entertaining forwards.

5. Mohamed Salah – 162 appearances

Mohamed Salah’s rise at Liverpool has been nothing short of sensational. The Egyptian winger redefined what it means to be a modern attacker, combining blistering speed with a deadly left foot. Salah reached 100 goals in just 162 appearances — a figure made even more impressive given he’s not a traditional striker. His consistency, work ethic, and ability to deliver in crucial games have made him one of the Premier League’s all-time greats.

4. Thierry Henry – 160 appearances

Few players have ever played the game with the elegance and intelligence of Thierry Henry. The Frenchman transformed Arsenal into title contenders, dazzling fans with his pace, technique, and trademark finishes. He reached 100 Premier League goals in just 160 appearances, often making it look effortless. Henry’s impact went beyond numbers — he brought artistry to the pitch and inspired a generation of players to combine flair with efficiency.

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3. Sergio Agüero – 147 appearances

Manchester City’s record scorer, Sergio Agüero, was a model of consistency and ruthlessness. The Argentine reached 100 goals in only 147 games, cementing his place among the Premier League’s elite. Agüero’s balance, quick feet, and composure made him nearly unstoppable inside the box. His goals often came at vital moments, and his famous title-winning strike against QPR in 2012 remains one of the defining moments in English football history.

2. Harry Kane – 141 appearances

Harry Kane’s journey from Tottenham academy prospect to Premier League superstar has been remarkable. The England captain hit 100 goals in just 141 matches, displaying an extraordinary ability to finish with both feet and his head. Kane’s intelligence, link-up play, and precision in front of goal have made him one of the most complete forwards of his era. His consistency season after season underlines his world-class status and relentless drive to keep improving.

1. Alan Shearer – 124 appearances

Sitting at the top of the list is the Premier League’s all-time leading scorer, Alan Shearer. The Newcastle and Blackburn legend reached 100 goals in just 124 appearances — a record that perfectly reflects his dominance during the 1990s. Shearer combined power, timing, and an unrelenting hunger for goals, becoming the ultimate number nine. His record of 260 Premier League goals still stands today, and it’s unlikely anyone will ever match his incredible pace to the century.

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