It’s now been 20 years since the Premier League system revolutionised English football, and it’s certainly been one hell of a ride. With the increased level of funding brought through the repackaging of the game, English football has left all in its wake, due to its fast paced, exciting style and ability to attract, and keep, some of the world’s top stars.
The 1990’s saw a real increase in global talent in the Premiership, with managers, such as Arsene Wenger, increasingly looking at the abilities of players from continental Europe and further afield. The successes of a choice few changed the way in which the sport was thought about in the country, propelling it from a fairly intrinsic spectacle to one where the skills and traditions of other societies and cultures were highly valued.
Although some will argue that the influx of footballers from the all corners of the planet has served to the detriment of the nation’s own team, there’s no denying that their unique abilities dragged football from the dark ages, converting to the spectacle that is now appreciated by all.
This list looks at 20 foreign players who have had a major impact on the English game, with their breath-taking skills and overall contribution to the evolution of the sport.
Click on Sami Hyypia below to unveil the list
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Any I missed? Let me know on Twitter at @Alex_Hams
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