Chelsea FC’s 50 Greatest Players Of All-Time
18. Eidur Gudjohnsen: 2000-06
Although he has played for some 13 different teams, Eidur Gudjohnsen’s longest spell at a sole club (by far) was with Chelsea. The Icelander arrived in the summer of 2000, moving south after impressing at Bolton Wanderers.
His six seasons at Stamford Bridge saw him be an ever-present in the side. He featured more than 35 times in each campaign and at least 40 times in four of them. While he was a striker by trade, his frequent employment in a supporting and more midfield role goes some way to explaining his underwhelming tally of 78 goals. Playing alongside the likes of Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Didier Drogba, Gudjohnsen acted as a perfect foil.
His contributions were rewarded with back-to-back Premier League titles in addition to a League Cup as he was able to bask in the glory of Jose Mourinho’s first spell in charge. He was a fan-favourite throughout his time with Chelsea due to his unwithering loyalty and commitment to the cause.
The fact that Barcelona came calling was testament to his value to a team and he would go on to enjoy further success in Spain (including the 2008/09 treble-winning season).
It is safe to say that he will always be welcomed back to Stamford Bridge with open arms.
Next: #17