Ashley Young etched his name into Premier League history during Everton’s emphatic 4-0 victory over Wolves on Wednesday night at Goodison Park.
The veteran full-back opened the scoring with a beautifully executed free-kick into the bottom corner, setting the tone for an impressive performance by Sean Dyche‘s side.
A Record-Breaking Moment
Young’s free-kick wasn’t just a stunning goal; it also marked two historic achievements. At 39 years and 149 days old, Young became the oldest player to score from a direct free-kick in Premier League history, surpassing Stuart Pearce‘s record set in October 2000.
Pearce, another former England international, had achieved the feat at 38 years and 180 days while playing for West Ham against Arsenal.
Additionally, the goal was Young’s 50th in top-flight football, further cementing his legacy as one of the league’s most consistent performers.
Climbing the Premier League Records
Young’s goal also places him as the fourth oldest scorer in Premier League history, surpassing Ryan Giggs.
He now trails only Thiago Silva, Dean Windass, and record-holder Teddy Sheringham, who remains the only player to score in the league at 40 or older.
Sheringham’s final goal came for West Ham against Portsmouth in December 2006 at 40 years and 268 days old.
Read Also: Manchester City Finally Break Winless Streak But Face Injury Setbacks
A Boost for Everton
The victory over Wolves wasn’t just a personal milestone for Young—it was a crucial result for Everton. Orel Mangala doubled their lead before two Wolves own goals sealed the Toffees’ triumph.
The win moves Everton to 15th in the table, five points clear of the relegation zone.
Meanwhile, Wolves find themselves in a precarious position, sitting three points adrift of safety after suffering their second defeat in five days.
Young’s Journey with Everton
Young’s strike against Wolves was only his second goal for Everton since joining the club in the summer of 2023. His previous goal came in the Carabao Cup against Burnley in November 2023.
A Family Affair in the FA Cup
Young’s remarkable week could lead to another historic moment in the FA Cup.
Everton have drawn League One side Peterborough in the third round, where they might face an unusual opponent—Young’s teenage son, Tyler.
The 18-year-old midfielder, who joined Peterborough’s under-21 side from QPR in 2023, has already made his senior debut and has been a regular on the first-team bench.
Reacting to the draw, Young wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“Wow… Dreams Might Come True.” Should Young score in the tie, he would become the third-oldest scorer in this season’s FA Cup, adding yet another chapter to his illustrious career.
Ashley Young continues to defy age and expectations, proving he remains a key player at the highest level.
His record-breaking free-kick and potential FA Cup showdown with his son underline the unique journey of one of English football’s most enduring talents.
