# The Best Premier League Goals Scored by Defenders: A MOTD Top 10 List
Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer and Micah Richards have come together to discuss the best Premier League goals scored by defenders. With one member of the crew making the list, just how high did Micah place? Listen to the MOTD Top 10: Goals by defenders, only on BBC Sounds and watch the first five episodes on now on BBC iPlayer to find out!
## What Makes a Great Goal Scored by a Defender?
Defenders are usually known for their defensive capabilities, but they can also be great goal scorers. A great goal scored by a defender is one that is unexpected, creative and technically impressive. It could be a long-range effort, a powerful header or a well-timed volley. Whatever it is, it should be something that stands out from the crowd and shows off the skill of the player.
## The MOTD Top 10 List
The MOTD Top 10 list is a compilation of the best Premier League goals scored by defenders. The list was compiled by Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, who discussed their picks and debated which goals should make the cut. The list includes some of the most iconic goals in Premier League history, from long-range screamers to acrobatic volleys.
## The Top 10 Goals
1. John Arne Riise – Liverpool vs Manchester United (2006)
2. David Luiz – Chelsea vs Manchester United (2012)
3. Phil Jagielka – Everton vs Manchester City (2013)
4. Vincent Kompany – Manchester City vs Leicester City (2018)
5. Rio Ferdinand – Manchester United vs Liverpool (2006)
6. Steve Bruce – Manchester United vs Sheffield Wednesday (1993)
7. Gary Cahill – Chelsea vs Tottenham Hotspur (2012)
8. Micah Richards – Manchester City vs Aston Villa (2009)
9. Sol Campbell – Tottenham Hotspur vs Portsmouth (2007)
10. Branislav Ivanovic – Chelsea vs Tottenham Hotspur (2010)
## John Arne Riise’s Screamer
At number one on the list is John Arne Riise’s stunning strike for Liverpool against Manchester United in 2006. The Norwegian defender unleashed an unstoppable 25-yard strike that flew into the top corner, giving United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar no chance. It was a goal that encapsulated Riise’s power and accuracy, and it will go down as one of the greatest goals in Premier League history.
## Micah Richards’ Goal
Micah Richards also makes the list with his goal for Manchester City against Aston Villa in 2009. The English defender latched onto a loose ball in the penalty area and fired a powerful shot into the roof of the net, giving Villa goalkeeper Brad Friedel no chance. It was a goal that showcased Richards’ ability to read the game and his eye for goal, and it was enough to secure City a 1-0 victory.
## Conclusion
The MOTD Top 10 list is a great way to celebrate some of the best goals scored by defenders in Premier League history. From John Arne Riise’s screamer to Micah Richards’ powerful strike, these goals are sure to live long in the memory of football fans around the world. So be sure to listen to the MOTD Top 10: Goals by defenders, only on BBC Sounds and watch the first five episodes on now on BBC iPlayer!