The Premier League Beard of the Year is Joe Ledley!
It’s been a massive year for Joe Ledley’s beard. Many said it couldn’t last, that it was unkempt, that it has small animals living inside it.
These things may all be true, but while it’s here let’s all sit back and enjoy the show. Currently rated 50:50 if he’ll be fit enough for the Euros, so keep your beards crossed!
Ledley breaks the Beard of the Year pattern as the first outfield player to be awarded, following Ben Hamer and Tim Howard.
This season has shown something of a renaissance in Premier League beards after last year’s disappointing selection.
Goalkeeper
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Tim Howard, Everton
Back in goal for the Bearded XI, but short of his former glory. This was Howard’s last season in the Premier League and BeardWatch will be sad to see him go. Perhaps his move to MLS will be the catalyst American football needs? |
Defenders
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James Collins,West Ham
I’ve always got a soft spot for a ginger beard, and this might be just as ginger as they come. |
Nicolas Otamendi,Man City
This finely manicured beast has won plaudits across Manchester, and has been kept looking at it’s best to strike fear into his opponents. |
Mile Jedinak, Crystal Palace
Dropping into defence as cover, Mile has had another fine season at Palace. The beard is still big and bushy and can do a solid job at the back. |
Midfielders
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Cesc Fabregas, Chelsea
Not an ever-present this season, but a very welcome sight when it’s poked itself out. Perhaps it’s Cesc’s way of keeping himself warm on those cold, wet Wednesday nights at Stoke… |
Joe Allen, Liverpool
Look at little Joe, all happy to have a beard! Unfortunately, it may not last as he’s vowed to chop it all off if he scores in the Europa League final… C’mon Sevilla! |
Joe Ledley (c), Crystal Palace
This is a beard that’s gone from strength to strength and rightly takes its place at the top.
★BEARD OF THE SEASON★ |
Sandro, West Brom
The only ever-present beard in the Premier League Bearded XI, Sandro diligently moved on loan to West Brom to ensure his place was secure. |
Strikers
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Olivier Giroud, Arsenal
He’s had his best season at Arsenal since joining, which can entirely be attributed to this beard. Obviously. |
Diego Costa, Chelsea
It’s fair to say Chelsea have had their problems this season, and many pundits have commented on their lack of commitment. This is evident with Costa and Fabregas only teasing us with little flashes of beard before cruelly snatching them away. |
Emmanuel Adebayor, Crystal Palace
A third entry for Crystal Palace making them the beardiest team of the year. Rock solid effort from Adebayor. |
Manager
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Quique Sanchez Flores, Watford
Last year’s best bearded manager was Sean Dyche (SEAN DYCHE ffs) so thank goodness for this sexy, sexy Dr House-a-like. Watford ditched him despite keeping them up and playing above expectations. More beard discrimination no doubt. |
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