Top 25 Premier League Full-Backs by Assists – Ranked
Full-backs have become essential weapons in modern football, not only for their defensive work but also for their ability to contribute in attack. In the Premier League era, several defenders have redefined the role by racking up impressive assist numbers. This list ranks the 25 most prolific assist providers among Premier League full-backs, starting from number 25 and counting down to the very best.
25 – Alan Kimble
Alan Kimble may not be a household name, but his service down the left flank earned him 24 assists in just 181 appearances. A consistent starter for Wimbledon, he proved to be a reliable presence both in defense and moving forward.
24 – Séamus Coleman
Everton’s long-serving captain Séamus Coleman provided 24 assists in 369 appearances, combining defensive solidity with bursts of attacking runs. His leadership and resilience have made him a fan favorite at Goodison Park.
23 – Matt Ritchie
Though often deployed further forward, Matt Ritchie played many games as a right-back and still managed 24 assists in 184 games. Known for his sweet left foot, he also chipped in with 12 goals during his Premier League career.
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22 – Denis Irwin
A master of consistency, Denis Irwin was a key figure in Manchester United’s dominance during the 1990s. He recorded 25 assists from full-back while also being a reliable penalty and free-kick taker, adding 18 goals to his name.
21 – Stig Inge Bjørnebye
The Norwegian left-back delivered 26 assists in just 162 Premier League games, a remarkable ratio for his era. His pinpoint crossing was a valuable weapon for Liverpool during the 1990s.
20 – Jason Dodd
Jason Dodd was a steady performer for Southampton, providing 26 assists in over 300 games. A dependable right-back, he rarely made headlines but was a key figure in the Saints’ back line for years.
19 – Steve Staunton
The Irish international notched 28 assists in 288 Premier League appearances, often threatening from set-pieces and long passes. His left foot was a reliable outlet for creativity and goals.
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18 – Glen Johnson
A dynamic full-back in his prime, Glen Johnson contributed 28 assists during a career that included spells at Chelsea, Portsmouth, Liverpool, and Stoke. He was known for his marauding runs and attacking flair.
17 – Aaron Cresswell
Still active in the Premier League, Aaron Cresswell has provided 29 assists in over 300 appearances for West Ham. His crossing ability and set-piece delivery have made him a crucial creative outlet from the left side.
16 – Lucas Digne
The Frenchman quickly made an impact in England, recording 29 assists across stints with Everton and Aston Villa. A modern full-back in every sense, Digne combines technique, pace, and aggression on both ends of the pitch.
15 – John Arne Riise
Known for his thunderous left foot, Riise racked up 30 assists for Liverpool and Fulham in the Premier League. He also scored 21 goals, often from long range, making him one of the most explosive left-backs of his era.
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14 – Gary Kelly
A loyal servant to Leeds United, Gary Kelly recorded 31 assists in 325 games. His tireless work rate and reliability down the right flank made him a vital part of the club’s 90s and early-2000s sides.
13 – Ashley Cole
Regarded as one of the best left-backs of all time, Ashley Cole provided 31 assists during his decorated Premier League career. Combining elite defensive ability with attacking support, he starred for both Arsenal and Chelsea.
12 – Dan Petrescu
Petrescu brought flair and invention from the right-back position, registering 33 assists in just 215 appearances. His overlapping runs and quick combinations were a constant threat during his Chelsea days.
11 – Gary Neville
One of the Premier League’s most consistent defenders, Neville provided 35 assists over 400 appearances for Manchester United. While not as flashy as others, his understanding with David Beckham on the right flank was exceptional.
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10 – César Azpilicueta
Azpilicueta proved to be a model of versatility and consistency at Chelsea, collecting 35 assists in over 340 games. His leadership and adaptability made him a key figure in several trophy-winning sides.
9 – Andy Hinchcliffe
An underrated set-piece specialist, Hinchcliffe delivered 36 assists in 219 games. His accurate left-footed deliveries made him a dangerous provider from corners and free kicks.
8 – Ian Harte
Harte’s thunderous left foot and eye for goal helped him record 36 assists and 28 goals in the league. A key part of Leeds United’s exciting early 2000s team, he was lethal from set-pieces.
7 – Kyle Walker
One of the fastest full-backs the league has seen, Kyle Walker has provided 36 assists while playing over 400 games. His recovery speed and strength made him a defensive rock, while his attacking support remains valuable.
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6 – Kieran Trippier
Since arriving at Newcastle, Trippier has shown why he’s considered among the best right-backs in Europe. With 38 assists, his technical prowess and set-piece quality have been instrumental to his teams’ success.
5 – Graeme Le Saux
Le Saux was one of the Premier League’s first modern attacking left-backs, recording 44 assists in his career. Known for his accurate crossing and stamina, he played a key role for Chelsea and Blackburn.
4 – Antonio Valencia
Originally a winger, Valencia transitioned into a powerful and effective right-back at Manchester United. He ended his Premier League career with 46 assists and 24 goals, blending strength and attacking intent.
3 – Leighton Baines
A master from the penalty spot and in open play, Baines tallied 53 assists for Everton. His partnership with Steven Pienaar was especially productive, and his set-piece delivery was second to none among defenders.
2 – Andrew Robertson
Scotland’s captain has revolutionized the left-back role at Liverpool under Jürgen Klopp, notching 60 assists and counting. His relentless energy, pressing, and pinpoint crosses make him one of the best in the business.
1 – Trent Alexander-Arnold
At just 25, Trent Alexander-Arnold already leads all full-backs with 64 Premier League assists. His vision and passing rival elite midfielders, and his influence on Liverpool’s attack is unmatched from a defensive role.
