Most loyal Premier League players: Across the Premier League there are still examples of players who have committed their entire careers to a single club through both success and struggle. This article profiles 10 current longest serving players in England’s top flight.
Paul Dummett – Newcastle United
As a boyhood Newcastle fan, few embody the spirit of the Magpies more than Paul Dummett. A product of the club’s academy, the defender made his debut in 2013 and has since amassed over 150 appearances, becoming an important squad player under multiple managers. Despite interest from elsewhere, the Geordie remains a symbol of Toon Army pride on and off the pitch with his commitment to his hometown club.
Tom Heaton – Manchester United
While relatively new to Old Trafford having arrived last summer, goalkeeper Tom Heaton’s loyalty credentials are proven from a decade spent at Burnley between 2006-2021. The shot-stopper was a key part of the Clarets’ rise from League One and helped establish them as a Premier League mainstay, making over 300 appearances before earning his Man United move.
Joe Gomez – Liverpool FC
Since arriving from Charlton as an 18-year-old in 2015, center-back Joe Gomez has developed into an important squad player for Liverpool with over 100 appearances to date. Despite suffering serious injuries, the Englishman has fought his way back to become a reliable option for Jurgen Klopp, showing strong commitment to the Reds’ project.
Kevin De Bruyne – Manchester City
Widely considered one of the world’s best midfielders, Kevin De Bruyne is also a rare example of longevity in the blue half of Manchester. Signing in 2015, the Belgian playmaker has been instrumental to City’s trophy-laden era, racking up over 250 games and countless assists. His consistency and quality have made him a legend at the Etihad after 7 years.
Aaron Cresswell – West Ham United
The versatile Aaron Cresswell has been a mainstay for West Ham for nearly a decade. Signing from Ipswich in 2014, the left-sided player’s consistency and leadership have been invaluable as the Hammers have cemented Premier League status. Cresswell is also a fans’ favourite, representing the club’s London roots. His longevity shows commitment through both stability and change at the London Stadium. While West Ham’s fortunes have fluctuated, Cresswell has remained a constant presence in claret and blue.
Joel Ward – Crystal Palace
A rock at the back for Palace since his 2012 arrival from Portsmouth, Joel Ward is closing in on 300 appearances in south London. The full-back’s consistency and understanding with teammates like Wilfried Zaha have helped the Eagles establish top flight security. His 10 years of service is a rarity in the modern game.
Solly March – Brighton & Hove Albion
Winger Solly March is another example of Premier League longevity, having made over 200 appearances for Brighton since 2014. The academy graduate is a fans’ favourite who understands the club’s identity. While March could have moved to bigger clubs, he opted to stay loyal as Brighton established themselves in the top-flight. His work ethic and technical ability have proven invaluable to the Seagulls. March’s loyalty is admired on the south coast as he aims to help Brighton progress further.
Chris Basham – Sheffield United
As a boyhood Blade, few embody Sheffield United more than long-serving defender Chris Basham. Integral to their rise from League One, the center-back remains a key player and leader as the Blades have established themselves back in the top flight. Over 15 years of service makes Basham a true club legend.
Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu – Luton Town
The midfielder is another example of lower league loyalty, having been at Kenilworth Road since 2014 during Luton’s rise to the second tier and subsequent promotion to the Premier League. His energy and experience have proven invaluable assets as the Hatters continue impressing in the top flight on their return.
Rico Henry – Brentford FC
When left-back Rico Henry joined Brentford from Walsall in 2020, little did he know he would become one of the club’s most loyal servants in recent history. Over the past 847 days, Henry has cemented himself as a key player for the Bees.
In his first season, Henry helped Brentford reach the Championship playoff final at Wembley on their first attempt. Though they lost to Fulham, it showed the promise of what they could achieve.
The following campaign saw Brentford achieve promotion to the Premier League for the first time ever. Henry was integral to their success with his attacking runs and solid defending. He embraced the club’s philosophy of playing progressive football.
Still only 25, Henry has already racked up over 150 appearances since joining Brentford from Walsall in 2020. His commitment during their rise makes Henry a fans’ favorite as the Bees continue establishing themselves.
In conclusion, while big moves are the norm, these 10 players stand out for their dedication to their boyhood or long-term clubs through both success and struggle. Their loyalty has earned them iconic status and set examples for the next generation.
