Gareth Barry breaks Ryan Giggs’ Premier League appearance record

By Rachel Swatman
Published

Gareth Barry took Ryan Giggs’ Guinness World Records title for the Most appearances in the English football (soccer) Premier League during last night’s match at the Emirates Stadium in London, UK.

Playing against Arsenal, the 36-year-old midfielder made his 633rd appearance playing for West Bromwich Albion F.C.

He was made captain of the team in honour of the occasion and even though the Baggies lost 2-0, the record-breaking game was definitely cause for celebration.

His children even took the day off school so they could watch their dad make history.

"I'm very proud to reach this number but like anything I try to put it to the back of my mind and concentrate on the game of football,” he told Sky Sports before the game.

Barry has broken the previous record of 632 appearances, achieved by Giggs playing for Manchester United from 1992 to the end of the 2013-14 season on 6 May 2014. Giggs congratulated the new record holder via a recorded message:

Responding to claims that Giggs has played more top level games than him, Barry commented:

“I’m not going to argue with Ryan about trophies and things like that. It was lovely to hear from him. I’m aware he’s played in the old First Division before and collected a few more appearances than the 633. I’m also aware the Premier League started in 1992 and records existed before that too. I’m not here to say I’m top of the tree in English football history.”

2016: Gareth Barry talks to GWR in his Everton football shirt

Many other big names in soccer have also been sending messages of praise to the West Bromwich player.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger, who tried to sign Barry twice in the past, wrote the following in his programme notes:

“He's a very intelligent player on the pitch and breaking Ryan Giggs' record is a remarkable achievement because it shows this guy has dedicated his life to the game.”

Barry made his debut for Aston Villa at the age of 17, appearing as a substitute in a 3-1 victory at Sheffield Wednesday on 2 May 1998, and has since gone on to break a number of impressive footie titles.

On 11 May 2016 he broke goalkeeper David James’ record for the Most starts for a Premier League football (soccer) player with 572.

This number has since been raised to 601 starts.

However, Barry has said he hopes to continue playing the sport until he is 40, so these record numbers are likely to increase.

In an exclusive interview with Guinness World Records in 2016, the midfielder revealed the secrets to his consistency as well as how his mum put him off “the bright lights of London”, advising him to choose Aston Villa over Arsenal, Chelsea and Crystal Palace.

Gareth Barry and Arsenal’s Petr Cech also took part in a Guinness World Records football quiz last year.

To find who comes out on top, as well as see Gareth’s reaction when we reveal he also holds another somewhat unwanted record, check out the video below.