The Premier League is famous for dramatic goals, nail-biting comebacks, and record-breaking transfers. But tucked away in its history are some records so unfortunate and extraordinary that fans and players would much rather forget them.
From record-breaking losing streaks to lightning-fast red cards, the PL has produced some truly eye-watering moments that have earned a place in football folklore for all the wrong reasons.
These moments offer a fascinating aspect of the league that makes betting across the domestic season so exciting.
Fastest red card
Imagine stepping onto the pitch and being sent off before even touching the ball. That was Keith Gillespie’s fate, who was dismissed for Sheffield United just 13 seconds after being subbed on against Reading in 2007.
After replacing Derek Geary early in the second half, Gillespie immediately swung his elbow into the face of Stephen Hunt while the ball was still out of play for a throw-in. The referee deemed this violent conduct, and Gillespie was subsequently shown a red before the game had even restarted.
It’s the kind of record that’s both tragic and hilarious, and in today’s more tactically aware game, it feels almost untouchable.
Most own goals
Richard Dunne holds the unwanted record for the most own goals in PL history, with a total of 10 across his time with clubs like Everton, Man City, Aston Villa, and QPR.
Dunne wasn’t a bad defender by any means and was, in fact, Man City’s Player of the Year for four consecutive seasons. But sometimes, he just got too involved, and with great involvement comes great risk.
His own goals often came from split-second reactions, misplaced clearances, deflections, or touches that went horribly wrong.
His unwanted record may raise smiles, but it’s also a reminder of how defenders live on the edge. One mistimed tackle can be the difference between a hero’s block and a shameful blunder.
The worst season ever
Some PL records are best left uncelebrated, and Derby County’s disastrous 2007-08 season holds a frightening number of them.
They set the record for the fewest wins in a season, managing just one against Newcastle, while also enduring the longest winless streak of 32 games.
Their struggles didn’t stop there. They ended the campaign with the fewest points in a season, with only 11, eight of which came from draws.
They scored a meagre 20 goals, the fewest in a season, and also ended with the worst goal difference of 69, tied with Sheffield United after their 2023-24 season.
Most yellow cards
Not many players are known for their outstanding discipline, but Lee Cattermole has made a career out of being booked.
Not only does he have the most yellow cards in a single PL season with 17, but he also holds the record for the most yellow cards in PL history, with a total of 91 in 271 matches.
He was known for his fiery temperament, relentless energy, and crunching tackles, and his record is a reminder that passion and aggression can make a player vital to a team, but can come with an obvious cost.
Most missed penalties
Penalties are some of the most high-pressure moments in football. Throughout PL history, there have been moments of glory and heartbreak from the spot. And sometimes even legends have off days, as Wayne Rooney holds the record for the most missed penalties in the PL with 11.
What makes this particularly interesting is that Rooney was otherwise a prolific goal scorer, with over 200 PL goals.
His record is just a reminder that football is human, and even the best can get it wrong.
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