‘I wish I didn't get injured for eleven months’ - Aiyegbeni proud of EPL record despite not reaching 100 goals

The ex-international enjoyed a prolific career in England's top flight with clubs including Portsmouth, Middlesbrough, Everton, and Blackburn Rovers. 

Across 252 appearances, he established himself as a formidable finisher, scoring 95 goals in the Premier League.

This impressive tally places him well ahead of other Nigerian greats in the Premier League scoring charts, surpassing Nwankwo Kanu (54 goals), Efan Ekoku (53), Shola Ameobi (43), and Kelechi Iheanacho (42).

Speaking to Sky Sports about his position among the continent's elite, Yakubu shared his pride. "It's massive when you mention these names, Adebayor, Mo Salah, Sadio Mané and Didier," he said. 

"To be in that list, it's unbelievable, scoring goals in one of the best leagues in the world. To be top five in that league and the highest Nigerian, records are meant to be broken, but to be in that list and to score goals, it's an honour. 

“The Premier League is so difficult... Being among that set of players is an honour; it makes me feel proud of myself.

"I am very proud of it, scoring 95 goals in the Premier League," he stated. "I've seen so many players scoring 100 goals... I didn't have that chance to do that because I was injured. How I wish I didn't get injured for eleven months.

"It's five goals more to become 100. I'm not greedy, I'm honoured, I'm very pleased with myself. It's an honour to play here, a boy from Benin scoring 95 goals in the Premier League. I am very grateful."

Yakubu's record also cements his place among Africa's most successful forwards in the league's history.