The Red Card Kings: Players with the Most Dismissals in the Premier League Since 2000

January 22, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

The Premier League is known for its intense and physical gameplay, and over the years, several players have etched their names in history for accumulating red cards. These dismissals are often the result of passionate battles, crunching tackles, or moments where emotions boil over in the heat of competition. For some players, the frequency of their red cards has become as memorable as their skill on the ball, painting a picture of their fierce determination and, at times, recklessness. Here’s a look at some of the most infamous players and their Premier League records.

John Hartson – 6 Red Cards

John Hartson, a physical striker, received six red cards during his Premier League career. While his appearances were limited compared to others on this list, Hartson’s fiery personality and confrontational style made him a standout on the pitch.

Nicky Butt – 6 Red Cards

Nicky Butt, a key figure in Manchester United’s dominance in the late 1990s and early 2000s, received six red cards during his 411 Premier League appearances. Known for his tenacious midfield play and tough tackling, Butt’s commitment sometimes led to him crossing the line, earning him a place among the league’s most dismissed players.

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Nemanja Vidic – 6 Red Cards

Nemanja Vidic, a key figure in Manchester United’s defense, earned six red cards in 211 Premier League games. His aggressive defending and no-nonsense attitude were critical to United’s success, though his tough tackling sometimes led to disciplinary issues.

John Terry – 6 Red Cards

Chelsea’s iconic captain, John Terry, received six red cards in his 492 Premier League appearances. Renowned for his defensive solidity and leadership, Terry’s physicality and commitment to the cause occasionally saw him fall foul of referees.

Steven Gerrard – 6 Red Cards

Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard received six red cards in 504 Premier League matches. Known for his leadership and ability to change games, Gerrard’s passion occasionally led to reckless challenges, with a famous dismissal occurring just 38 seconds after coming on against Manchester United.

Andrew Cole – 6 Red Cards

Andrew Cole, one of the Premier League’s most prolific goal scorers, amassed six red cards during his career. Playing 414 games for clubs like Newcastle United, Manchester United, and Blackburn Rovers, Cole’s competitive spirit sometimes spilled over, leading to on-field altercations.

Gareth Barry – 6 Red Cards

Gareth Barry, the Premier League’s all-time appearance leader with 653 matches, also earned six red cards. Representing Aston Villa, Manchester City, Everton, and West Bromwich Albion, Barry’s disciplined midfield play occasionally led to unfortunate dismissals, a rarity for a player of his consistency and professionalism.

Joey Barton – 6 Red Cards

Joey Barton’s reputation as a controversial figure in football was mirrored in his six red cards across 269 Premier League games. Playing for Manchester City, Newcastle United, Queens Park Rangers, and Burnley, Barton’s fiery personality and outspoken nature often overshadowed his considerable footballing talent.

Alan Smith – 7 Red Cards

Alan Smith’s Premier League journey saw him dismissed seven times over 285 appearances for Leeds United, Manchester United, and Newcastle United. Known for his versatility as both a forward and midfielder, Smith’s aggressive pressing and commitment often pushed him beyond the rules of the game.

Vinnie Jones – 7 Red Cards

Known as one of football’s toughest players, Vinnie Jones earned seven red cards in his Premier League tenure, which spanned 184 appearances for Wimbledon and Chelsea. His physical and sometimes brutal style of play epitomized the gritty football of the 1990s, making him both a cult hero and a disciplinary concern.

Roy Keane – 7 Red Cards

Roy Keane, one of Manchester United’s most legendary captains, received seven red cards in 366 Premier League games. Keane’s aggressive leadership and uncompromising tackling defined his career. His confrontations, most notably with Arsenal’s Vieira, remain some of the league’s most memorable moments.

Patrick Vieira – 8 Red Cards

The iconic Arsenal midfielder, Patrick Vieira, also accumulated eight red cards during his 307 Premier League appearances. Vieira’s combative midfield presence made him a cornerstone of Arsenal’s success in the early 2000s. However, his fiery duels with opponents, including infamous clashes with Roy Keane, led to frequent send-offs.

Duncan Ferguson – 8 Red Cards

Duncan Ferguson, a towering striker, matched Dunne’s record with eight red cards. Across 269 Premier League games for Everton and Newcastle United, Ferguson’s physical style and fiery temperament were his trademarks. While he often thrilled fans with his goal-scoring ability, his confrontational approach occasionally led to disciplinary issues.

Richard Dunne – 8 Red Cards

Richard Dunne, and Thierry Henry — Eoghan McNally / Shutterstock.com

Richard Dunne leads the list with eight red cards in his Premier League career. The Irish defender, known for his no-nonsense style, played 432 league matches for clubs like Manchester City, Aston Villa, and Queens Park Rangers. Dunne’s aggressive defending often placed him in precarious situations, resulting in frequent dismissals, but his leadership and defensive prowess were invaluable to his teams.