They say it’s a young man’s game, but while it may be the young up-and-coming gems that make the headlines in the Premier League, there are still plenty of players knocking about who are still performing at a high level despite being in their mid-30s.
Here, we’re to going to run through a select few of these older players who have shown they still have the energy and ability to compete during the 2020-21 season.
Branislav Ivanović
The first player on our list is the venerable Branislav Ivanović, who recently celebrated his 37th birthday. Best known for his many years of service at Chelsea, Ivanovic is now plying his trade at West Bromwich Albion, brought in by Slaven Bilić last summer to bring some defensive experience to the East Midlands outfit.
Of course, things didn’t work out for Bilić, but Ivanović has been a useful asset to his successor Sam Allardyce, although given that West Brom are destined for relegation, it’s unlikely that the Serbian will extend his stay beyond this season.
Thiago Silva
Thiago Silva was brought to Chelsea last summer to provide some much-needed defensive knowhow, and despite injury struggles and a calamitous debut against West Brom, the Brazilian has performed admirably when called upon, and it’s clear that he has had a positive effect on a dressing room full of talented, but inexperienced, players.
At 36, Silva is no spring chicken, but every team needs a bit of elder wisdom, and his experience has been vital in Chelsea’s fortunes in the English Premier League odds.
Pablo Hernández
Although Pablo Hernández has played largely a supporting role for Leeds United this season, he is something of a cult hero at the club for his exploits in helping them earn promotion to the Premier League, and his seasons of toil in the Championship. Another figure who adds a wealth of experience to the dressing room, Hernández proved himself as a silky wide midfield player over the years, who isn’t afraid to get stuck in either.
Leeds were widely tipped as likely candidates in the English Premier League relegation odds, but they’ve proved everyone wrong, and much of that is down to the team spirit instilled by long-serving players such as Hernández.
Fernandinho
Manchester City club captain Fernandinho is still going strong, and although he plays more of a squad role these days, the Brazilian still does a fine job in defensive midfield when called upon. Fernandinho has been present for so much of City’s success over the last decade or so, and has undoubtedly achieved legend status at the club.
With his contract due to expire this summer, this season could end up being Fernandinho’s last at the club, but he has made enough memories at Manchester City to last a lifetime.
James Milner
We couldn’t have a list like this without mentioning James Milner, whose fitness levels at the age of 35 are something to be marvelled at. He might not be the first name on Liverpool’s team sheet each week, but time and again he has proven his ability to do a sterling job when called upon.
Milner still has another year to run on his contract after this season, and it would be no surprise to see Liverpool retain his services beyond that.