Why are Premier League injuries at a new high?
www.bbc.com
The Premier League currently has 196 injuries recorded in just over three months, with Newcastle and Manchester United suffering more than most - so why this many?
  • Injury crisis: The Premier League has seen a record number of injuries this season, with 196 in just over three months. Newcastle and Manchester United are the worst-hit teams with 14 players injured each this season.
  • World Cup effect: The 2022 winter World Cup in Qatar may have contributed to the increase in injuries, as players had to play more games in a shorter time before and after the tournament. The average length and severity of injuries also rose after the World Cup.
  • Hamstring injuries: Hamstring injuries have seen a 96% increase this season, with 53 incidents. This may be related to the longer added time and the higher tempo of the Premier League games.
  • Cost of injuries: Injuries have a significant financial impact on clubs, as they have to pay wages to unavailable players. The cost of injuries across the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga and Ligue 1 was £617.8m in 2022-23, a 27.3% increase from the previous season.
  • Festive period: The upcoming festive period will see more games in a short span of time, which may lead to more injuries. The Premier League says no club plays within 60 hours of another match, but some experts suggest 72 hours is the optimal recovery time.