5 of the greatest Premier League imports from South Africa
When the Premier League was established in 1992, foreigners playing in England was something that didn’t happen too often. The increase in TV revenues through Sky Sports meant that English clubs could compete with the Italians in buying the best footballers. What followed was an influx of footballers from overseas.
The Premier League has been blessed with some of the greatest players in recent years. Thierry Henry, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Eric Cantona just to name a few. Granted, when people think of imports, they automatically recognise players from other European countries and South America.
However, Africa has provided fans with defensive grit and technically gifted players and so, here are five of the greatest African’s to play in the Premier League.
#1 Lucas Radebe
Signed by Leeds United in 1994 from Kaizer Chiefs, Lucas Radebe went on to become a legend in Yorkshire, all whilst establishing himself as one of the best central-defenders in the Premier League during that era.
A loyal servant, Radebe played for just two clubs in his professional career. Spending five years at Kaiser Chiefs, his dominant performances led to a move to Leeds United. The South African spent 11 years at Elland Road, before retiring from professional football in 2005.
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Born and raised in Soweto, Radebe was once hailed as a ‘hero’ by the late Nelson Mandela. Although no Premier League medal to his name, the South African will go down as one of the greatest ever Africans to have plied their trade in the Premier League.
His commanding performances resulted in Manchester United offering £10 million to secure the services, of which Leeds United were unwilling to cooperate. Radebe went on to win Leeds United’s Player of the Year in 1998.