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The biggest league in the world, the Premier League houses some of the best players and managers in the game.
It has been that way for some time now. Legendary players have plied their trade in England's top flight, and have become club legends. It is not easy to survive in the Premier League for many years, as the financial might of the league means there is always a new player who might take their place.
Nevertheless, some players have achieved astonishing longevity. These players have played for some of the biggest clubs in the league, and some of them boast amazing trophy cabinets.
On that note, here's a look at the five players with the most appearances in Premier League history.
#5 James Milner - 569
James Milner has carved an incredible career at the highest level, and arguably deserves more praise than he receives.
Milner has been an exceptionally consistent player for some time now. He made his Premier League debut as a talented young player for Leeds United in 2002, and has not looked back since then. Milner has represented Premier League clubs like Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City and Liverpool, during his storied career.
Milner won the Premier League twice with Manchester City, but he probably will be best remembered for his time with Liverpool. The 35-year-old is still a part of the Liverpool first team, and has impressed with his versatility. Milner has been utilised as a midfielder and full-back by Jurgen Klopp, to huge success. He has won the Premier League and the Champions League with his current club.
#4 David James - 572
David James was one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League during his prime. He held the record for most clean sheets in the competition for a while before he was ultimately surpassed by Petr Cech.
James began his career with Watford, before moving to Liverpool in 1992. He spent seven seasons with the club, winning the Football League Cup during his time there. The England international also played for Aston Villa, West Ham United and Manchester City, among other clubs.
James was also England's first-choice goalkeeper for a while. The 51-year-old retired in 2014 after a brief spell with Indian Super League club Kerala Blasters. He is currently working as a pundit.
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#3 Frank Lampard - 609
Regarded by many as the greatest midfielder to have played in the Premier League, Frank Lampard was a sensational player.
A product of West Ham United's academy, Lampard enjoyed a legendary spell with Chelsea. The former England international made his name as a prolific goal-scoring midfielder, with his late runs into the box causing havoc. He was also renowned for his ability to find the net from outside the box.
Lampard made 648 appearances in all competitions for Chelsea, scoring 211 goals and providing 150 assists. Most of his over 600 appearances in the Premier League came with The Blues.
The 43-year-old retired in 2016 after spending some time with Manchester City and New York City FC. Most recently, Lampard was the manager of Chelsea, but was sacked from the role earlier this year.
#2 Ryan Giggs - 632
Ryan Giggs was a one-club man, spending his entire career for 13-time Premier League winners Manchester United.
Giggs enjoyed a trophy-laden club career. A prodigious talent, the winger made his name as a quick and technically gifted player. The Wales international would develop into a well-rounded forward player, capable of scoring goals and creating chances consistently.
Giggs won 13 Premier League titles with Manchester United, which is more than any other player. The 47-year-old is often cited as an example to younger players due to his discipline and endurance. Giggs made nearly 1000 appearances across competitions for United.
#1 Gareth Barry - 653
Gareth Barry was not a complete midfielder, but few could match his work ethic and tenacity.
Barry made his professional debut for Aston Villa in 1998. He made 434 appearances in all competitions for the club, scoring 52 goals and providing 27 assists. A move to Manchester City followed in 2009, where Barry won a Premier League title. He is the only player with over 650 Premier League appearances.
Renowned for his consistent midfield displays, Barry spent his later years representing Everton and West Bromwich Albion. The England international retired in 2020. Like Giggs, Barry was an incredibly fit athlete who took care of himself.
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