Softfootball highlights that the former Nigerian international faced a setback due to an injury that sidelined him for 11 months, ultimately placing him fifth in the all-time Premier League scoring leadership. He trails behind notable players like Mohammed Salah, Sadio Mane, Didier Drogba, and Emmanuel Adebayor.
Despite this, Aiyegbeni had a successful tenure in the Premier League, playing for Portsmouth, Everton, and Middlesbrough, where he consistently outperformed defenders and contributed critical goals to his teams. At Goodison Park, Yakubu was recognized for his goal-scoring prowess, whereas Everton currently plays at Hill Dickinson Stadium, where their inaugural match was a 2-0 victory against Brighton.
In a recent podcast featured on Sky Sports Premier League’s official Youtube channel, Yakubu reflected on his experiences on the pitch during his Premier League career.
“It’s massive when you mention these names Adebayor, Mo Salah, Sadio Mane and Didier Drogba. To be in the list is unbelievable. Scoring goals in one of the best leagues in the world, the Premier League. To be top five and highest Nigerian striker. Records are meant to be broken but to be in the list is an honour. The Premier League is difficult to score goals and you see a lot of players struggle because it is a hard league but to be in among those set of players is an honour.
I’m very proud of scoring 95 goals in the Premier League. I have seen a lot of players scoring 100 goals but I didn’t have the chance to do it because I was injured. I wished I didn’t get injured for 11 months, I think it was five goals more to become 100 but I’m not greedy, I’m honoured and pleased that I scored 95 goals in one of the toughest leagues in the world. The boy from Benin scoring 95 goals in the Premier League, I’m very grateful.”
The former Everton player also took the opportunity to discuss his challenging upbringing, which has had a lasting impact on his career. To see the full interview, visit Sky Sports Premier League’s official Youtube channel.
Aiyegbeni concluded his career with 95 Premier League goals and retired at the age of 35. He ranks fifth among the all-time African top scorers and holds the record for the most Premier League goals by a Nigerian player. He made his debut for Nigeria in 2000 and netted 21 goals in 58 matches for the Super Eagles.
