While the English Premier League has long been a stomping ground for the best talent from all over the world, it's significantly rarer to see English players make the move from their home nation and home leagues to the many different leagues the world has to offer. But, if you're willing to put in the research, you'll find that there are a number of once household names who now find themselves playing abroad. Read on, as we look at six players, you'll recognise from their Premier League days, who are now playing abroad
Kieran Trippier (Atlético Madrid, Spain)
Having performed well at the 2018 World Cup in Russia for England, it's fair to say that Kieran Trippier caught the eye. With the right-back struggling for a regular starting position in the Tottenham Hotspur line-up, Trippier made the move to Atlético Madrid in the summer of 2019, and since then he has made himself a regular under coach Diego Simeone. Atlético are one of the favourites to win La Liga in the football betting, and Tripper's contributions are a part of that.
Chris Smalling (Roma, Italy)
Chris Smalling had become a figure of mockery at Manchester United by the time he was granted a loan move to Seria A side Roma. But the centre-back impressed greatly at the Italian club, who made the transfer permanent in the summer of 2020. Smalling is proof that although a player may struggle in the Premier League, a move abroad can often have a revitalising effect.
Ashley Young (Inter, Italy)
Staying with the theme of former Manchester United players, Ashley Young also made the move to Serie A in January 2020. Young was a valuable player for United over the years, but similar to Smalling, the former England international eventually became a source of ire for Manchester United fans, and a move to Inter brought him out of the spotlight, and gave him a fresh start in a new league.
Steven Taylor (Odisha, India)
Fans of English football may be surprised to learn that former Newcastle defender Steven Taylor is still playing, but the now 34-year-old is plying his trade in the Indian Super League with Odisha. After leaving Newastle in 2016, Taylor has been on a footballing odyssey around the world, which has included spells in the USA, New Zealand and now India.
Jay Bothroyd (Consadole Sapporo, Japan)
Cardiff City supporters will be interested to learn of the progress of Jay Bothroyd, who is currently to be found playing for Japanese side Consadole Sapporo in the J1 League. Now at the ripe old age of 38, Bothroyd was once a solid English league player, making the biggest mark at the south-Wales club, where he endeared himself to supporters with his work rate and goals.
Jordon Mutch (Aalesand, Norway)
After enjoying Premier League football with Cardiff City, QPR and Crystal Palace, Jordon Mutch is now plying his trade in Scandinavia, having signed for Norwegian club Aalesand earlier this year. This move followed spells with Vancouver Whitecaps in Canada, and South Korean side Gyeongnam.
