The Goalkeepers with the Most Assists in Premier League History
This past weekend, Manchester City’s goalkeeper Ederson etched his name in the Premier League’s history books when he set up Omar Marmoush for the opening goal against Newcastle United. Notably, this was the Brazil international’s third assist of the season, a remarkable feat for a goalkeeper, bringing his total to six assists since joining City in 2018. This achievement places him at the top of the list of goalkeepers with the most assists in Premier League history. But who else shares this exclusive group, and what makes these players stand out?
Mark Crossley – 3 Assists
Mark Crossley, a former Wales international, had a long and memorable career in the top flight, spanning over a decade at Nottingham Forest, Middlesbrough, and Fulham. Despite not winning any major silverware, Crossley was a beloved figure among 90s football fans, known for his reliability and longevity. He made over 300 league appearances for Forest, earning eight caps for his national team. Crossley’s three assists are a testament to his occasional forays into the playmaking realm, even from his position between the posts. His career is a story of consistency and dedication, making him a respected name in Premier League history.
Tim Howard – 3 Assists
Tim Howard, one of the foremost figures in the expansion of soccer in the United States, arrived in English football with Manchester United in 2003 and later spent a decade at Everton. The athletic American quickly became a fan favorite on Merseyside, known for his exceptional shot-stopping abilities and leadership. Howard’s three assists are a reflection of his versatility and skill, often using his long throws to launch quick counters. One of the few goalkeepers to score a Premier League goal, Howard’s impact on the game extended beyond just keeping the ball out of his net.
Jussi Jaaskelainen – 3 Assists
Jussi Jaaskelainen joined Bolton for a mere £100,000 in the late 1990s, proving to be a fantastic bargain. He helped the club regain promotion to the Premier League and became a club legend, making over 500 appearances in all competitions. Despite frequent links to bigger clubs, the Finland international remained loyal to Bolton, earning the club’s Player of the Year award in 2006/07. Jaaskelainen’s three assists, coupled with his impressive 100+ clean sheets record, highlight his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively. His move to West Ham and later Wigan rounded out a 20-year career in English football, marked by consistent performances and occasional moments of brilliance.
Peter Schmeichel – 3 Assists
Peter Schmeichel, widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in Premier League history, was a cornerstone of Manchester United’s dominant teams of the 1990s. He won five league titles and the Champions League during his time at Old Trafford and was named the Premier League Player of the Season in 1995/96. Schmeichel’s presence in goal was formidable, and his long throws were often the catalyst for United’s attacks. His three assists, including a memorable moment in a defeat to Everton in 2001, showcase his unique ability to influence games from the back. His contributions to football, both on and off the pitch, have left an indelible mark on the sport.
Alisson Becker – 3 Assists
Alisson Becker, the current goalkeeper for Liverpool, has added his name to the list of goalkeepers with three Premier League assists. His last assist came in 2022 when he set up Mo Salah’s winner against Manchester City, a moment reminiscent of his first assist against Manchester United. Known for his precise long kicks and commanding presence, Alisson has been instrumental in Liverpool’s recent successes. His goal-scoring ability, particularly his stunning header against West Brom in 2020/21, further cements his status as one of the most versatile and influential players in his position.
Pepe Reina – 4 Assists
Rafael Benitez signed Pepe Reina for Liverpool in 2005, a move that paid off handsomely. Reina quickly established himself among the best goalkeepers in the Premier League, winning the Golden Glove award for three consecutive years between 2006 and 2008. His four assists, including a perfectly weighted kick to Albert Riera in a win over Aston Villa in 2009, demonstrate his exceptional ability to distribute the ball effectively. Reina’s impact on Liverpool’s defense was significant, and his contributions to the team’s attacking play were often overlooked but equally important.
David Seaman – 4 Assists
David Seaman, one of the great goalkeepers of the Premier League era, won two league titles under Arsene Wenger at Arsenal. A key member of the Gunners’ defensive line, Seaman kept 141 clean sheets, second only to a select few in the league’s history. His four assists over a 12-year Premier League career highlight his role as a reliable and versatile player. Seaman’s long service to Arsenal and his brief stint at Manchester City before retiring in 2004 solidify his place as a legend in English football.
Paul Robinson – 5 Assists
Paul Robinson, the former Leeds, Spurs, and Blackburn goalkeeper, held the record for the most assists by a goalkeeper for several years before Ederson. Over an almost two-decade-long career, Robinson created five Premier League goals, often through his powerful long kicks. One of his most famous moments was a fortuitous 95-yard goal against Watford in 2007, which exemplified his ability to contribute to both ends of the pitch. Robinson’s career is marked by his consistent performances and his unique skill set, making him a standout figure in the Premier League.
Ederson – 6 Assists
Ederson, since joining Manchester City in 2018, has revolutionized the role of the goalkeeper in modern football. Known for his exceptional ball-handling and distribution skills, he has recorded six Premier League assists, the most by any goalkeeper in the league’s history. His latest assist, a beautifully lobbed ball over Newcastle’s defense, finished by Marmoush, showcases Ederson’s creativity and precision. This season, he has already notched three assists, breaking his own record for the most assists by a goalkeeper in a single Premier League campaign. His ability to initiate attacks and his occasional forays into the field of play have made him an invaluable asset to City, underlining his role as a modern-day playmaker.
These goalkeepers, each with their unique stories and contributions, have not only excelled in their primary role of keeping goals out but have also made a significant impact in the attacking phase of play. Their assists and occasional goals highlight the evolving role of the goalkeeper in the Premier League, where technical skill and playmaking ability are now highly valued.
