The top 10 African-born Premier League players ever

By George Ankers

The African influence in the Premier League has been gradually growing in recent years as the English top flight continues to expand.

When the rebranded division began in 1992-93, there were only three players (Peter Ndlovu, Efan Ekoku and Bruce Grobbelaar) from the continent - that figure is now up to 30 as of Kader Mangane's arrival at Sunderland.

With the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations upon us, Goal.com counts down the top 10 African-born players to have lit up England's elite. It was a tough decision, with a pantheon of superstars and cult heroes from which to choose.

The likes of Grobbelaar and Tony Yeboah can feel unlucky to miss out; Celestine Babayaro and Yakubu might have made the list for longevity, while Steven Pienaar and Emmanuel Adebayor may go on to prove themselves worthy.

But there could only be 10. So here they are...

1. 

   1. Marcel Desailly

2. 

   2. Patrick Vieira

3. 

   3. Didier Drogba

4. 

   4. Jay-Jay Okocha

5. 

   5. Nwankwo Kanu

6. 

   6. Lucas Radebe

7. 

   7. George Boateng

8. 

   8. Claude Makelele

9. 

   9. Lauren

10. 

    10. Yaya Toure