5 greatest Italians to have played in the Premier League

Modified Feb 01, 2017 07:50 GMT

LONDON - MARCH 23: Carlo Cudicini of Chelsea in action during the Barclays Premier League match between Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on March 23, 2008 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) — Cudicini was unlucky to have spent so much time on the bench

#2 Paolo Di Canio

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - MARCH 26: West Ham United player Paolo Di Canio fires in the first goal past Neil Sullivan during the FA Carling Premiership match between West Ham United and Wimbledon at Upton Park on March 26, 2000 in London, England. West Ham won the game 2-1 and Di Canio's goal was voted goal of the season. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) — Paolo Di Canio was one of the biggest characters in the Premier League

The volatile and temperamental player redefined emotions during his time in the Premier League. The player made headlines with his emotional outbursts and celebration on the field, which drew sharp criticism from plenty. However, no one could deny his quality as a player. Initially signing for Sheffield Wednesday, the Italian would go on to become a cult hero at West Ham.

The player scored 66 goals and assisted 49 times in 190 appearances for the London club. He dazzled the Hammers faithful his beautiful skills and some breathtaking goals. The Italian was honoured as the Hammer of the Year for the 1999-2000 and also won the Goal of the Season award for the same season. His flying volley against Wimbledon is still considered to be one of the greatest Premier League goals.

Edited by Staff Editor