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The Premier League is arguably the best league across Europe due to its unmatched hype and anticipation. It has racked up record viewership and attracted global icons since its formation in 1992.
Due to its ever-increasing popularity, the Premier League has been home to some of the world's finest footballers over the years. The English top flight has also been blessed to witness great leaders among these top footballers. They have led their respective Premier League clubs to unparalleled success over the last three decades.
A leader is someone who operates by example and constantly motivates his teammates when things get tough. Successful Premier League sides have always had great captains who led with courage and vision. They have inspired others to step up on the biggest stages.
Without further delay, let's take a look at
5 longest-serving captains in Premier League history
Note: We will only be taking a look at the captains of the consistently performing top clubs in the English top flight.
#5 Jordan Henderson - 6 years and counting
Jordan Henderson is not just one of the most underrated footballers around but also remains one of the best leaders in world football. Criticized at the start of his Liverpool tenure, Henderson has established himself as one of the best captains in Premier League history.
Blessed with supreme tactical discipline, Henderson has played a pivotal role in Liverpool's midfield by aiding in defense and initiating attacks. The Englishman is one of the key reasons why the Reds maintain their shape, energy and intensity on the pitch.
What separates Henderson from the rest is his never-give-up attitude, which mirrors Liverpool's might on the pitch. The midfielder has already led the Reds to a Premier League title and a Champions League title, among other notable accolades.
#4 Roy Keane - 8 years
Roy Keane was the captain of the Manchester United team which enjoyed unprecedented domination in the Premier League. The aggressive Irishman was one of the greatest leaders of his generation, leading the Red Devils from the front.
Even with a fair share of controversies surrounding him, Keane was one of the most revered footballers around. He remains one of Manchester United's most successful captains. He won four Premier League titles in his eight-season tenure as the undisputed leader.
Keane's best moment came when he led a raw Manchester United side to a continental treble in 1999. His performance against Juventus in the semi-final second leg of the 1998-99 Champions League remains a source of inspiration to many United players even now. He led his side to a comeback from two goals down to win 3-2.
#3 Steven Gerrard - 12 years
Steven Gerrard is the greatest Premier League captain to have never won the Premier League. Despite the solitary failure of his illustrious career, Gerrard has rightly earned the title of 'Mr. Liverpool' since taking the captain's armband for the Reds in 2003.
Gerrard had been ever-present for Liverpool through thick and thin. Blessed with the ability to elevate his game at the biggest stages, the legendary midfielder always stepped up to help his side win titles.
During his tenure at Liverpool, he won a total of 11 trophies including the FA Cup twice and the League Cup thrice.
Gerrard was a gifted midfielder, with his caliber to dominate the opposition and dictate the result of a game. But what cemented Gerrard's legacy was his performance in Liverpool's unforgettable Champions League final triumph against Milan in the 'Miracle of Istanbul'. He led the Reds' comeback from 3-0 down to reach 3-3 and eventually win the title on penalties.
#2 John Terry - 13 years
John Terry was not just one of the Premier League's greatest centre-backs but also one of the best captains in the English top flight. Being one of the most influential leaders of his generation, the defender was always hungry and determined to succeed.
Under Jose Mourinho's tutelage and Terry's leadership, Chelsea became a force to be reckoned with in Europe. Records, titles and individual honors followed the Englishman. He helped Chelsea win successive Premier League titles in 2004-05 and 2005-06 campaigns.
Terry was captain of the Blues for 13 years from 2004 to 2017, winning five Premier League titles and one Champions League title along the way. His fearless nature and his way of leading was remarkable and pushed Chelsea to attain immense success.
#1 Tony Adams - 14 years
Tony Adams is arguably Arsenal's greatest ever captain. He led one of the best teams in Premier League history with utter ease. The defender was a towering presence at the heart of Arsenal's defense. The Gunners won four league titles and three FA Cups, among other notable accolades, under his leadership.
Adams took over the captaincy for Arsenal when he was just 21 years old in 1988. The decorated defender went on to make more than 500 appearances for the club. He stayed as captain until the end of his career. His statue at the Emirates Stadium is a testament to the incredible mark and legacy he left with the Gunners.
