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

#1 Gianfranco Zola

SUNDERLAND - APRIL 5: Gianfranco Zola of Chelsea celebrates scoring the equalising goal during the FA Barclaycard Premiership match between Sunderland and Chelsea held on April 5, 2003 at the Stadium of Light, in Sunderland, England. Chelsea won the match 2-1. (Photo by Gary M. Prior/Getty Images) — Zola was voted Chelsea’s player of the century

Without a shred of doubt, Gianfranco Zola is the greatest Italian to have graced the pitch in the Premier League. The player essentially redefined Chelsea as a club and is till date considered as one of their greatest players of all time. Such was the panache and elegance of the player that it was during Zola’s time that Chelsea became a famous club amongst viewers outside England.

His talents were recognised by all and The Football Writer’s Association honoured him with the title of Player of the Year in the 1996-97 season. The Italian spent seven illustrious years at the London club, going on to win five major trophies during the period.

Zola made 229 appearances for the club in which he scored 59 goals. His creative abilities allowed him to provide 42 assists as well. The Italian was a true legend not just for Chelsea fan but the Premier League as well.

In 2006, Zola was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame for his exemplary performances for Chelsea.

Edited by Staff Editor