Counting down the Premier League's toughest players.
England's top flight is known for being the best league in the world, with fans from across the globe tuning in to watch the Premier League. The style of play is the biggest factor, with the Premier League having boasted some of world football's best teams across the last 20 years. But, there's also a darker side to the Premier League, given it still hasn't shaken the traditional tough-tackling aspect of English football. And in recognition of English football's best nutjobs, Express Sport have ranked the top 20 hardest players...
20 - Nigel de Jong
20 - Nigel de Jong
Nigel de Jong will be best remembered for nearly sticking his boot through Xabi Alonso's chest during the 2010 World Cup final. But that wasn't exactly a one off, with the Dutchman famed for his tough-tackling nature. During his time at Manchester City, the Blues faithful would sing: "Oh when De Jong goes sliding in," to the tune of When the Saints Go Marching In. Says it all really...
19 - Joey Barton
19 - Joey Barton
From one former Manchester City player to another, with Joey Barton certainly worthy of a spot on this list. He picked up a 12-match ban for two counts of violent conduct in a single match during his Premier League playing days.
18 - Diego Costa
18 - Diego Costa
Most of the entries on this list will be defenders and midfielders, so it's only fair to highlight hardmen in all positions. Diego Costa certainly was a throwback when he arrived at Chelsea in 2014, with the Spanish international picking up 26 bookings in 89 matches. That's more than one yellow card every four matches! (Image: Getty)
17 - Chris Morgan
17 - Chris Morgan
Given Chris Morgan spent most of his career in the EFL, and only played 35 times in the Premier League, it would be unfair to stick him any higher. But his Wikipedia page labels him as an 'uncompromising defender', which is about as accurate a description as you can get. As the saying goes, he was built like a brick...
16 - Robert Huth
16 - Robert Huth
More of a gentleman than a thug, but Robert Huth certainly wasn't one to mess with. Huth was a man mountain at 6ft3in.