7 footballers who have earned a reputation for being overly-aggressive

In every form of contact sport, there are players who absolutely love using physicality to the fullest. Be it basketball or football, there are players who are known for their aggressive nature and relentless approach on the pitch.Players are often expected to be aggressive but some of them have taken their game to another level, often looking out of control. Some have gained cult status as players not to be messed with. The often spoken about “red mist” seems to descend on these players more often than others.Defenders and holding midfielders are usually the ones expected to be aggressive. However, these days, even forwards are required to be brutal to carry out the team's agenda of physical play. These players don’t seem to be out on the pitch to hurt others but it seems to have blended into their style of play.Funnily enough, it seems to work in the favour of these players at times, seemingly driving them and pushing them on the pitch. There are no half measures and soft tackles in this slideshow.Without further ado, here are 8 players who are know for their aggression.

#1 Pepe

Starting off with one of the despised characters in the world of football. Pepe was bought from Porto by Real Madrid for 30 million Euros in 2007. Since then, he has been a mainstay at the club – but not without controversies.

It all began when he came up against Getafe’s Javier Casquero. After breaking through on goal, Casquero was brought down by the Portuguese in the box and the referee blew the whistle for a penalty. The former Porto man then proceeded to perform a shocking act that would stun audiences.

Pepe seemed to attempt to kick Casquero’s skull not once but twice. And, fortunately, he failed in his attempts as his boots just brushed the head of the then Getafe player. He received a 6-game ban for this incident.

He has since been criticised for a number of incidents across matches often without reprimand. One of these incidents came in a match against Barcelona when Pepe was spotted stamping the hand of Lionel Messi.

Now, however, Pepe has toned down those antics to such a level that it would be hard for one to remember the last time he did something that could be considered overly aggressive.

But the past is never erased completely and Pepe’s reputation still seems to follow him around in memes from time to time.