Martin Keown: “Teddy Sheringham Was My Toughest Opponent”

Martin Keown: “Teddy Sheringham Was My Toughest Opponent”

Martin Keown, widely regarded as one of the greatest centre-backs in Premier League history, recently named Teddy Sheringham as his toughest opponent during his illustrious career.

Known for his tenacity and exceptional defensive skills while playing for clubs such as Everton and Arsenal, Keown built a reputation as an impenetrable force in defense.

Over his career, he established himself as a commanding presence at the heart of his team’s back line, earning respect from teammates and rivals alike.

Despite winning ten trophies and being named Arsenal’s Player of the Year in the 1995/96 season, Keown admitted that certain forwards challenged him more than others.

In a 2019 Q&A with the Daily Mail, the veteran defender was asked to single out the most difficult opponent he faced. Without hesitation, he cited Teddy Sheringham, a striker known for his versatility and goal-scoring prowess, whom he had encountered while facing top rivals at Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.

Sheringham’s ability to read the game and create scoring opportunities made him a particularly formidable adversary against Keown’s disciplined defensive style.

Their on-pitch battles showcased a compelling clash of offensive ingenuity and defensive mastery, underscoring the high level of competition in the Premier League.

Keown’s candid acknowledgment not only highlights the challenges he faced but also emphasizes the mutual respect among elite players, even when pitted against one another in fierce encounters.