While the primary objective in football is scoring against the opposition, some unfortunate players have etched their names into the Premier League's own goal record books. Here, we introduce the top five defenders whose attempts to thwart attacks resulted in defying the laws of physics and finding their own net.
1. Own Goal Maestro: Richard Dunne (10)
Securing the dubious crown is Richard Dunne, an experienced defender who inadvertently scored an astonishing 10 own goals during his tenures at Everton, Manchester City, Aston Villa, and Queens Park Rangers. Despite being recognized for his aerial prowess, Dunne's footwork occasionally betrayed him, leading to spectacularly unfortunate deflections and ricochets.
2. Liverpool Legend, Own Goal Specialist: Jamie Carragher (7)
Another Premier League icon, Jamie Carragher, displayed equal proficiency in both defending and scoring - unfortunately for the wrong team. His seven own goals at Liverpool often involved bizarre deflections or lunges under pressure, introducing an element of comedic tragedy to his otherwise stellar career.
3. Phil Jagielka and Martin Skrtel (7 each)
Everton and Sunderland defender Phil Jagielka, along with Liverpool's imposing center-back Martin Skrtel, share the undesirable record of seven own goals each. Jagielka's mishaps typically resulted from misjudged clearances or desperate interventions, while Skrtel's powerful clearances sometimes backfired spectacularly.
4. Jonny Evans (6)
Completing the top five is Jonny Evans, a versatile defender who has played for Manchester United, West Bromwich Albion, and Leicester City. His six own goals highlight a knack for turning harmless crosses and hopeful long balls into nightmares for his own goalkeepers.
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