The Premier League is one of the most competitive football leagues in the world, with teams battling fiercely for points, even as Manchester City have recently dominated the competition. Those who bet on football know that any team can get a result on their day at both ends of the table, but City are strong favourites to lift the trophy for a fifth successive season.
City’s relentless pursuit of success was epitomised when John Stones came off the bench to score a 94th-minute equaliser against Arsenal, a moment that could prove season-defining in the title race.
Arsenal had been moments away from a landmark win, especially after Leandro Trossard’s first-half red card left them with ten men. Yet, City’s persistence and some smart tactical moves from Pep Guardiola ensured their unbeaten run in the league – stretching back to last December – remained intact.
Indeed, the match was a perfect example of the importance of having impact players on the bench. Stones’ introduction late in the game, after City lost talisman Rodri to injury early on, was pivotal in turning the tide.
Over the years, the Premier League has seen countless players step up from the bench to change games in dramatic fashion. Whether scoring late winners or providing the defensive solidity needed to see out matches, these super-subs have cemented their legacies in English football.
Here, we look at some of the best super-subs in Premier League history.
Javier Hernandez
Javier Hernandez, affectionately known as “Chicharito,” was an underrated weapon for Manchester United during his time at Old Trafford.
Known for his sharp instincts in the box, Hernandez scored 19 of his 53 goals for United as a substitute, often changing the course of tight matches.
A key figure in two Premier League title-winning campaigns, his ability to come off the bench and deliver was invaluable.
After brief stints in Spain and Germany, he returned to England with West Ham, where he added another 16 goals across two seasons, further enhancing his reputation as a reliable goal-scorer.
Jermain Defoe
Jermain Defoe was a natural goal-scorer with a knack for making an impact off the bench. Throughout his time with clubs like West Ham, Portsmouth, and Tottenham, Defoe netted 24 of his 162 Premier League goals as a substitute—an impressive 15%.
He played a pivotal role in Tottenham’s Champions League runs and was instrumental in keeping Sunderland afloat during his later years.
John Obi Mikel
Though not a goal-scorer, John Obi Mikel was a different kind of super-sub for Chelsea. Dubbed the “human full-time whistle” by Chelsea fans, Mikel was often brought on by managers, particularly José Mourinho, to close out games.
His physicality and defensive intelligence allowed Chelsea to protect leads, making him a vital piece of their midfield over an 11-year period.
Mikel’s ability to break up play and disrupt the opposition’s rhythm was instrumental in Chelsea’s success during his time at Stamford Bridge.
Shola Ameobi
A cult hero at Newcastle United, Shola Ameobi became synonymous with his super-sub role during his long tenure at the club.
Despite not being a marauding forward or goalscoring winger, Ameobi’s physicality and ability to disrupt opposition defences made him a valuable asset off the bench.
Over 14 seasons, he made 142 substitute appearances, often playing second fiddle to stars like Alan Shearer and Michael Owen.
Even during Newcastle’s relegation and subsequent promotion, Ameobi remained a dependable figure, showing his loyalty and versatility.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
A true Manchester United legend, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was a master of the super-sub role under Sir Alex Ferguson.
Known for his calmness and clinical finishing, the Norwegian often found himself competing with a host of elite strikers for a starting spot. However, when called upon from the bench, he made his presence felt, most famously scoring the winning goal in the 1999 Champions League final.
With 17 Premier League goals as a substitute, Solskjaer was the epitome of a game-changer.
