The Premier League is one of the most physical leagues in the world, long known for its aggressive challenges and hard-fought battles. As a result, yellow cards are a common sight. We’ve taken a look at the 20 players who have received the most bookings in Premier League history.
Richard Dunne – 74 Yellow Cards
A solid but aggressive defender, Richard Dunne racked up 74 yellow cards during his time in the Premier League.
Gavin McCann – 75 Yellow Cards
A tough-tackling midfielder, McCann was never afraid to get stuck in, earning him 75 yellow cards in the Premier League.
Patrick Vieira – 76 Yellow Cards
The legendary Arsenal captain was known for his physicality, earning 76 yellow cards during his time in England.
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James Milner – 76 Yellow Cards
One of the most versatile players in Premier League history, Milner’s commitment and tenacity led to 76 yellow cards.
Nicky Butt – 77 Yellow Cards
A key part of Manchester United’s midfield in the late 90s and early 2000s, Butt’s no-nonsense approach saw him booked 77 times.
Joey Barton – 78 Yellow Cards
Known for his fiery personality and aggressive tackles, Barton collected 78 yellow cards throughout his career.
Phil Bardsley – 79 Yellow Cards
A tough full-back who never backed down from a challenge, Bardsley earned himself 79 yellow cards.
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Mark Noble – 82 Yellow Cards
West Ham’s legendary captain was a midfield enforcer, accumulating 82 yellow cards over his career.
Phil Neville – 82 Yellow Cards
A defensive-minded midfielder and full-back, Neville picked up 82 yellow cards across his stints with Manchester United and Everton.
Kevin Nolan – 85 Yellow Cards
A natural leader and combative midfielder, Nolan was often in the thick of the action, resulting in 85 yellow cards.
George Boateng – 85 Yellow Cards
The Dutch midfielder was a force in the Premier League, known for his strong challenges that earned him 85 yellow cards.
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Lee Cattermole – 88 Yellow Cards
One of the most notorious midfield enforcers of his generation, Cattermole received 88 yellow cards in the league.
Ashley Young – 89 Yellow Cards
A tricky winger turned full-back, Young’s aggressive tackling and defensive discipline led to 89 yellow cards.
Robbie Savage – 89 Yellow Cards
A player who loved the physical side of the game, Savage’s combative nature saw him booked 89 times.
Scott Parker – 92 Yellow Cards
Parker’s work rate and tough tackling were key to his game, leading to 92 bookings.
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Paul Scholes – 97 Yellow Cards
Despite his incredible vision and passing ability, Scholes was infamous for his rash tackles, earning 97 yellow cards.
Lee Bowyer – 99 Yellow Cards
A fiery midfielder who thrived on competition, Bowyer was booked 99 times in his Premier League career.
Kevin Davies – 99 Yellow Cards
A powerful forward known for his aerial ability and physicality, Davies collected 99 yellow cards.
Wayne Rooney – 102 Yellow Cards
Wayne Rooney was famous for a fiery side, earning 102 yellow cards in the Premier League.
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Gareth Barry – 123 Yellow Cards
Holding the record for the most yellow cards in Premier League history, Barry’s longevity and tough tackling saw him booked 123 times.
