The graph below shows the ten clubs who have amassed the most goals in the history of English football’s top division, ranging from the pre-Premier League era (First Division) right through to the present day.
Rather surprisingly, particularly to those of a younger generation, Everton and Aston Villa head the list, beating the modern day behemoths of Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea. Partly this is because Everton have had the most top flight matches but also it must be remembered that the Toffees have produced some excellent football teams over the years.
Arsenal run third in the list, again due to a long affiliation with the English top flight having not been relegated once since the year 1919. Liverpool and Manchester United follow close behind in fourth and fifth place respectively, again with a history of phenomenal success in the top division.
Rather curiously we then have a drop of around just under 1000 goals between United and fierce local rivals Manchester City. Despite Manchester City currently sitting at the summit of English football, as well as having had very successful teams in the past, it is the numerous relegations the club has endured which has seen them play significantly less top division matches than United, and thus amasses such a lower number of goals.
One of the notable patterns of this list is that the teams are all currently in the Premier League, they are all clubs with varying, but significant amounts of success throughout their history and it shows that over time the select group of elite clubs in the top flight largely stays the same. It also shows clubs who have been able to stand the test of time and remain financial stable, at least in the long term.
Of course we know the financial problems suffered by Chelsea throughout the years but this list is testament to the club’s resolve in staying in the top flight, and whilst it doesn’t give us an analysis of the most successful clubs, it may well give us an insight into the most sustainable.
H/T Reddit
