There are things as beautiful than a pinpoint cross into the box, preferably with a bit of whip or curl included and resulting in a goal.
We’ve been fortunate another to witness some of the biggest masters of the crossing game in the Premier League over the decades, all with their own unique style and ability.
Some preferred to float them in, others preferred to put pace and accuracy into their technique. Whatever the style, football fans will always appreciate the fine art of a football being crossed. It can be mesmerizing at times.
So we’ve ranked the top 15 crossers of the ball in the Premier League era.
Have a flick through to see who we’ve included – did we miss anyone?
15. Stewart Downing
His end-product in terms of scoring goals was disappointing, but Downing has a wand of a left foot.
The 35-year-old has delivered over 2,718 crosses in the Premier League since 2006 – more than any other player.
14. Chris Brunt
Another left-footed magician. Brunt has often been subject to controversial moments in his career but his crossing ability is outstanding.
The 34-year-old has been at West Bromwich Albion since 2007; fans at the Hawthorns have witnessed his wizardry on countless occasions, whether that be from set-pieces or open play.
13. Trent Alexander-Arnold
Liverpool’s exciting right-back hasn’t spent too long in the Premier League so far, but what an outstanding crosser he already is at such a young age.
The 20-year-old registered 12 assists in 29 Premier League appearances last season. For a full-back, they are outstanding figures and this is just the start.
12. Gylfi Sigurdsson
The Icelandic playmaker oozes class and what he can produce, especially from free-kicks, is extremely rare.
Sigurdsson opts for the ‘whip’ technique when crossing, regularly causing mayhem in the opposition box. I certainly wouldn’t want to defend his crosses, that’s for sure.
11. Cesc Fabregas
Eden Hazard revealed Fabregas’ nickname is ‘The Master’ and it’s not difficult to see why.
The Spain midfielder inherits unique intelligence and creativity; although his crossing does not belong in the mesmerising category, he finds passes and crosses that 99% of players never see.
10. Sebastian Larsson
Another player who produced magic from nothing. The Sweden midfielder has delivered 1,495 Premier League crosses since 2006 and if you were a striker waiting for the perfect ball into the box, Larsson was the player to provide that.
Whether it’s a free-kick, corner or open play, the 34-year-old was a constant threat and achieves a deserved 10th-place ranking.
9. Aleksandar Kolarov
When Kolarov’s name is mentioned, every person immediately thinks of his outrageous left foot.
The versatile Serbian full-back – who also operates on the left flank due to his crossing ability – was an extremely valuable asset to Manchester City. Players like him arrive once in a blue moon (ironic) and his crossing quality should not be overlooked.
8. Morten Gamst Pedersen
The Norwegian obtained similar characteristics to the aforementioned Kolarov. Pace, power and accuracy – three components to make a tasty delivery.
Pedersen is remembered for his magical left foot during his spell at Blackburn Rovers, completing 1,355 crosses in the Premier League since 2006.
