Yakubu Aiyegbeni reflects on his 95 Premier League goals, proud to be Nigeria’s top scorer and among Africa’s best in England’s top-flight history

Yakubu Aiyegbeni Premier League Goals record has been celebrated once again, as the former Super Eagles striker reflected proudly on his achievement as Nigeria’s all-time highest goalscorer in the English Premier League.

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Now 42, Yakubu Aiyegbeni scored an impressive 95 goals in 252 Premier League appearances during spells at Portsmouth, Middlesbrough, Everton, and Blackburn Rovers.

His lethal finishing made him a cult hero across English football and secured his place among the continent’s finest in England’s top-flight history.

In a recent interview with Sky Sports, the ex-international expressed deep satisfaction with the milestone.

“It’s massive when you mention names like Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Adebayor, Drogba,” Yakubu said. “Being on that list and the highest scoring Nigerian striker is a huge achievement. It makes me proud.”

His 95-goal haul places him fifth among all African players in Premier League history, with only Mohamed Salah, Didier Drogba, Sadio Mané, and Emmanuel Adebayor ahead of him.

Despite narrowly missing the 100-goal mark, Yakubu revealed that an 11-month injury hampered his chances during his peak years.

“So many players score 100, but I didn’t have the chance because I was injured for nearly a year. I wish I hadn’t got injured – it would’ve been five more goals. But I’m not greedy. I’m happy and honoured to have reached that milestone in a huge league,” he added.

“A boy from Benin scoring 95 goals in the Premier League — I’m grateful.”

The Premier League remains one of the world’s most competitive leagues, and Yakubu’s enduring legacy as a prolific and consistent striker continues to inspire young Nigerian footballers.

Kelechi Iheanacho is currently the closest Nigerian player to Yakubu’s record, with 42 goals — still a long way off from equalling the former Everton man’s tally.

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As Nigeria continues to produce striking talent, Yakubu Aiyegbeni’s Premier League goals remain a benchmark for excellence — a proud legacy from a footballer who once lit up England with his powerful presence and clinical finishing.