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The Premier League is no stranger to feisty and competitive players. Fans adore footballers who give their all on the pitch and fight for the badge.
However, there have been instances where these players have taken things a bit too for. This results in the player getting cautioned, or worse, sent off.
Finding the right balance between being aggressive and cautious is a skill not many of these feisty players have been able to master. This is crucial because at this level, even a slight lapse in concentration can change the outcome of a match.
The Premier League is one of the most physical leagues in the world
In a league as competitive and physical as the Premier League, being aggressive and combative is a necessity. Players have to fight tooth and nail to win every challenge, no matter how risky it may be. However, keeping the cards to a minimum is a task not every club has managed to succeed at.
Let us now take a look at the five teams who have been shown the highest number of cards in the Premier League this season:
#5 Southampton
Southampton made headlines in January when they announced that the club’s ownership was going to change. Sport Republic, an investment firm backed by Serbian billionaire Dragan Solak, has acquired an 80 percent stake in the club. After years of mediocrity, the Saints fans will be eagerly anticipating a bright future.
Southampton players have been shown 45 cards in the Premier League as of now. Captain James Ward Prowse and Mohammed Salisu are the two players that have been shown red cards this season.
The Saints have consistently finished mid table due to their inability to string together wins. They have been inconsistent this season as well, and are currently 12th in the league. Ralph Hasenhuttl will look to take Southampton to new heights, especially under the new club management.
#4 Manchester United
Manchester United have had a lot of problems to sort out in the past year. The Red Devils were expected to fight for the title after making numerous world-class signings, including the inimitable Cristiano Ronaldo. However, United have struggled to win games that they usually dominate.
There have been times when United's players have shown their frustration on the pitch and made clumsy challenges. They have been shown 46 cards so far in the season and two of these have been red. Paul Pogba and Harry Maguire are the two United players who have been sent off.
Although United have had a couple of decent results of late, they should not get too far ahead of themselves. The Red Devils are currently fourth in the league. Ralf Rangnick will need his players to remain on track for the remainder of the season if they are to finish in the top four.
#3 Aston Villa
After Jack Grealish's departure to Manchester City at the start of the 2021-22 season, many expected Aston Villa to crumble. However, Villa have valiantly gone about their business in the Premier League. There seems to be a renewed energy amongst both players and the fans, especially after Steven Gerrard was made manager.
Aston Villa have had quite the transfer window since January. Lucas Digne and Calum Chambers have been signed from Everton and Arsenal, respectively. Their marquee signing, however, was Philippe Coutinho, who is with the Villans on loan until the end of the season.
Aston Villa have collected 45 yellow cards and one red card in the Premier League as of now. Ezri Konsa was the recipient of the red card in Villa’s game against West Ham in October. Villa are currently 11th in the league and will look to finish the season in the top half of the table.
#2 Newcastle United
Newcastle United have made headlines over the past year thanks to their momentous financial takeover. Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund now owns the major stake at the club and the deal has provided fans with renewed hope.
Newcastle have collected a total of 53 cards in the Premier League so far, including two red cards. Ciaran Clark and Jonjo Shelvey have been the recipients of the two red cards. Newcastle have had a busy winter transfer window, completely revamping their squad. Kieran Trippier, Chris Wood, Bruno Guimaraes, Dan Burn and Matt Targett have been signed by the club.
Newcastle look a completely different side with the new signings but still have a lot to do if they are to escape relegation. The Magpies are currently 19th in the league, one point away from Norwich who are in 17th. The impact of the new signings will be crucial if Newcastle are to stay in the Premier League.
#1 Leeds United
Leeds United made their Premier League return in the 2020-21 season after an interval of 16 years. Although they may not dominate the league, Leeds are one of the most entertaining sides in the competition. Marcelo Bielsa’s adventurous philosophy of relentless pressing makes their games a joy to watch.
Leeds have amassed a total of 59 cards this season. Some may be surprised to see Leeds have just one red card, given their aggressive playstyle. Pascal Struijk was shown a red card for a clumsy tackle against Liverpool in September.
Much to the disappointment of their fans, Leeds have failed to replicate last season’s phenomenal form. They are currently 15th in the league. No new signings have been made in the January window either, further irking the supporters. Leeds have five matches in February in a span of just 16 days, which may define their season.
