The One-Season Wonders: 10 Players Who Peaked and Vanished
Football is a game full of surprises, and one-hit wonders are no exception. One season can change a player’s life, these are the players who have had a single outstanding season, leaving a lasting impression on the fans and the football world. Their performances during that one season have earned them a place in history and made them memorable for years to come. This list looks at some of the one-hit wonders who have graced the football pitch with their exceptional performances.
1) Jamie Vardy
In the world of football, there are players who achieve greatness through their consistent performances season after season, and then there are players who have one season that elevates them to legendary status. Jamie Vardy falls into the latter category, as his remarkable performances during the 2015-2016 season helped propel Leicester City to their historic Premier League title win, with Vardy scoring 24 goals in 36 league appearances.
Jamie Vardy’s journey to footballing success was not an easy one. He began his career playing in non-league football, playing for teams such as Stocksbridge Park Steels, Halifax Town, and Fleetwood Town. It wasn’t until 2012 that he signed for Leicester City, who were then in the Championship, and began his meteoric rise to fame.
It was during the 2015-2016 season that Vardy truly made his mark on English football. He began the season with a goal in each of his first four games, including a stunning long-range effort against Bournemouth that showed off his incredible technique and power. As the season progressed, Vardy’s goals continued to flow, and he found the net in some of Leicester’s most important matches.
Perhaps the most memorable of Vardy’s goals that season came in Leicester’s 2-0 win over Liverpool in February 2016. Vardy scored a stunning volley from just inside the box, showcasing his incredible finishing ability and helping his team to a vital win over one of the Premier League’s biggest clubs.
Vardy’s performances that season were not just about goals, however. His tireless work ethic, pace, and ability to run in behind defences were key components of Leicester’s counter-attacking style of play, and he was often the catalyst for his team’s attacks. Vardy’s performances that season earned him the Premier League Player of the Season award, and he was also named in the PFA Team of the Year.
Vardy’s 24 goals that season were crucial to Leicester’s title win, and his performances will forever be etched in the history of English football. He proved that anything is possible in football, and that hard work, determination, and belief can take a team to the very top. Vardy’s rise from non-league football to Premier League champion is a story that inspires footballers everywhere, and his legacy will continue to live on long after he hangs up his boots.
2) James Beattie
During Southampton’s 2002-2003 campaign. Beattie’s performances that season were nothing short of phenomenal, as he scored 23 goals in 33 Premier League appearances, making him the league’s second-highest scorer behind Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Beattie’s journey to footballing greatness started in Blackburn, where he played for several years before moving to Southampton in 1998. He quickly became a fan favorite at the club, known for his physicality, aerial ability, and eye for goal. However, it wasn’t until the 2002-2003 season that Beattie truly made his mark on English football.
Southampton had a solid season in 2002-2003, finishing eighth in the Premier League and reaching the FA Cup final, where they were narrowly beaten by Arsenal. Beattie’s performances were a key reason for the club’s success that season, as he scored 23 goals in the league, including a memorable hat-trick against Chelsea in a 4-2 win.
James Beattie’s goalscoring exploits that season earned him the Premier League Player of the Month award for December 2002 and saw him earn his first England call-up in February 2003. He went on to score on his England debut against Australia, becoming the first Southampton player to score for England since Mick Channon in 1976.
Beattie’s impact that season went beyond just his goalscoring, however. His work ethic, physicality, and all-round play made him a nightmare for opposition defenders. His link-up play with fellow Southampton striker Brett Ormerod was particularly impressive, as the two formed a lethal partnership that helped propel the team up the league table.
James’s 23 goals that season remain a Southampton record in the Premier League era, and he is still fondly remembered by Southampton fans as one of the club’s greatest ever players. Beattie’s performances that season were a testament to his skill, determination, and work ethic, and showed that anything is possible in football. Beattie may have only had one outstanding season, but that season will forever be etched in the annals of Southampton football history. 24 goals in all comps is very impressive for mid-table team.
3) Afonso Alves
Afonso Alves is one such player, whose remarkable performances for Heerenveen during the 2006-2007 season saw him score an incredible 34 goals in 31 league appearances.
Alves began his career in Brazil, playing for clubs such as Atlético Mineiro and Malmö FF in Sweden, before signing for Heerenveen in January 2006. It wasn’t until the following season, however, that Alves truly showed his potential as one of the best strikers in European football.
Alves’ performances during the 2006-2007 season were nothing short of sensational. He began the season with a hat-trick in Heerenveen’s opening game, and never looked back. His goalscoring form continued throughout the season, and he scored in 22 of his 31 league appearances, including two five-goal hauls against Heracles Almelo and De Graafschap.
Alves’ goals that season were not just about quantity, however. He scored some truly remarkable goals, showcasing his incredible technique, power, and finishing ability. One of his most memorable goals came in Heerenveen’s 5-1 win over Feyenoord in November 2006, where he scored a stunning solo effort, beating several defenders before calmly slotting the ball past the goalkeeper.
Alves’ performances that season earned him the Eredivisie Golden Boot as the league’s top scorer, and he was also named the Dutch Footballer of the Year. His form also saw him earn his first call-up to the Brazilian national team, and he went on to score two goals in his first international appearance against Sweden.
Despite Alves’ incredible performances, Heerenveen ultimately finished in fifth place in the Eredivisie that season. However, his performances saw him attract interest from some of the biggest clubs in Europe, and he eventually signed for Middlesbrough in the Premier League in January 2008.
Afonso Alves’ 34 goals for Heerenveen during the 2006-2007 season will go down as one of the greatest individual seasons in Dutch football history. He proved that anything is possible in football, and that hard work, determination, and talent can take a player to the very top. Alves may not have had the longevity of some of the greats of the game, but his one outstanding season will be remembered by football fans around the world for years to come.
4) Roque Santa Cruz
Roque Santa Cruz, the Paraguayan forward, was one such player during his time at Blackburn Rovers, where he had an outstanding season in 2007-2008, scoring 19 goals in the league and 23 in all competitions.
Santa Cruz had already made a name for himself in South America, playing for clubs such as Olimpia, Bayern Munich, and River Plate, before signing for Blackburn in 2007. His impact on the team was immediate, with his first goal coming in his second game for the club.
But it was in the 2007-2008 season where Santa Cruz truly shone. He scored 19 goals in 37 appearances in the Premier League, finishing as the fourth highest scorer in the division, and also scored four goals in Blackburn’s run to the semi-finals of the League Cup.
What made Santa Cruz’s performances that season even more impressive was the fact that he was often the lone striker in a team that was not among the strongest in the league. He had to rely on his exceptional talent, positioning, and finishing ability to make a difference for his team.
Roque Santa Cruz’s most memorable game that season came against Wigan Athletic in December 2007, where he scored a hat-trick in a 5-3 win. He also scored crucial goals against the likes of Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester United, showcasing his ability to perform on the biggest stages.
Unfortunately for Blackburn, they were unable to build on Santa Cruz’s outstanding season, finishing in a disappointing seventh place in the Premier League. Santa Cruz was, however, named Blackburn’s Player of the Year for his contributions.
Roque ‘s outstanding season at Blackburn Rovers showed the world what he was capable of. His goalscoring ability, work rate, and never-say-die attitude made him a fan favorite at Ewood Park. His performances also saw him attract interest from some of the biggest clubs in Europe, and he eventually signed for Manchester City in 2009.
While Santa Cruz may not have had the longevity of some of the greatest strikers in the game, his outstanding season at Blackburn Rovers will always be remembered by football fans around the world. His ability to find the back of the net and his overall impact on the team proved to be vital to Blackburn’s success that season, he will be remembered fondly in the eyes of the Rovers fans.
5) Grafite
The 2008-09 season of the Bundesliga was one such season, and one player who played a crucial role in making it unforgettable was Grafite, the Brazilian striker who played for VfL Wolfsburg. He had a stunning season, scoring 28 goals in the league and 35 in all competitions, leading his team to the Bundesliga title.
Grafite had already established himself as a prolific scorer before joining Wolfsburg in 2007. However, it was his partnership with fellow Brazilian striker Edin Dzeko that really set the league on fire. Together, they formed one of the deadliest striking partnerships in Europe, scoring a total of 54 goals in the league that season.
Grafite’s standout performance came in a game against Bayern Munich in March 2009, where he scored one of the most memorable goals in Bundesliga history. In the 62nd minute of the game, he received a pass with his back to goal, turned and flicked the ball over the head of Bayern defender Lucio, and then volleyed the ball past the goalkeeper into the top corner of the net. The goal was later named Goal of the Season in Germany, and remains one of the greatest individual goals ever scored.
But it was not just that one goal that made Grafite’s season remarkable. He scored in 14 consecutive league games, a record that still stands to this day in the Bundesliga. He also scored crucial goals against other top teams in the league, such as Schalke, Werder Bremen, and Borussia Dortmund, ensuring that Wolfsburg finished top of the table with a comfortable lead.
Grafite’s performances that season saw him win the Bundesliga Golden Boot award, and he was also named the German Footballer of the Year. He was a key player in a Wolfsburg team that played an attacking brand of football, and his ability to finish chances was vital to their success.
Unfortunately for Wolfsburg, they were unable to build on their success in the following season, and Grafite eventually left the club in 2012. However, his outstanding season in 2008-09 will always be remembered as one of the greatest individual performances in Bundesliga history.
Grafite’s 28 league goals that season were more than just numbers on a stat sheet. They were a testament to his talent, work rate, and determination to succeed. He was a player who always gave his all on the pitch, and his performances that season will always be remembered as some of the best in German football history.
6) Kevin Phillips
Kevin Phillips who had a remarkable season with Sunderland in 1999-2000, scoring an incredible 30 goals in the league.
Phillips was already a seasoned professional when he joined Sunderland in 1997. However, it was in the 1999-2000 season that he really made a name for himself, helping his team secure promotion to the Premier League and being named the Premier League Player of the Season.
What made Phillips’ season so special was not just the number of goals he scored, but the quality of his finishes. He had a remarkable ability to score goals from all angles and distances, using his pace, agility, and technical skill to outfox defenders and find the back of the net.
One of his most memorable goals that season came in a game against Chelsea, where he picked up the ball in his own half, drove past several defenders, and slotted the ball past the goalkeeper to score one of the greatest solo goals in Premier League history. His performances that season also included a hat-trick against Sheffield Wednesday and crucial goals against other top teams like Manchester United and Arsenal.
Kevin Phillips’ success that season was not just down to his individual brilliance, but also his understanding with his strike partner, Niall Quinn. The two formed a formidable partnership, with Quinn’s physical presence and aerial ability complementing Phillips’ pace and skill on the ground.
Sunderland’s success that season was not limited to their attacking prowess, as they also had a solid defence and a hard-working midfield. However, it was Phillips’ goals that were crucial in securing their promotion to the Premier League and establishing them as a top-flight team.
Kevin’s remarkable season saw him win numerous individual awards, including the Premier League Golden Boot and the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year award. He was also called up to the England national team, where he continued to score goals at an impressive rate.
Phillips’ time at Sunderland may have been relatively brief, but his impact on the club and the Premier League was significant. His 30 league goals in the 1999-2000 season remain a record for a player in a single Premier League campaign, and his ability to score crucial goals in important games was crucial in helping Sunderland achieve their goals.
In a league that is renowned for its high level of competition and quality, Phillips’ performances in the 1999-2000 season remain some of the most impressive individual performances in Premier League history.
7) Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson’s season with Crystal Palace in 2004-05 is one that is still fondly remembered by fans of the club, and for good reason. Johnson, who had previously been playing in the lower leagues, made an immediate impact in the Championship, scoring an impressive 21 league goals and 22 in all competitions.
Johnson’s performances that season were vital in helping Palace secure a place in the playoffs, where they ultimately triumphed over West Ham United to earn promotion to the Premier League. His pace, movement, and clinical finishing ability made him a constant threat to opposition defences, and he quickly became a fan favourite at Selhurst Park.
What made Johnson’s season so remarkable was the fact that he had only recently been playing in the fourth tier of English football with Birmingham City. However, his performances in the lower leagues had caught the attention of Palace manager Iain Dowie, who made the decision to bring him to the club.
Andrew Johnson’s transition to Championship football was seamless, and he quickly established himself as one of the league’s most lethal strikers. He scored his first goal for the club in just his second appearance, and went on to score braces in victories over teams like Sheffield United and Stoke City.
One of Johnson’s most memorable performances that season came in a game against local rivals Brighton and Hove Albion, where he scored a hat-trick in a 5-0 victory. His pace and movement caused havoc for the Brighton defence, and his clinical finishing ensured that he converted the chances that came his way.
Andrew ‘ssuccess that season was not just limited to the Championship, as he also scored goals in the League Cup and the FA Cup. His performances earned him a call-up to the England national team, where he scored on his debut against the United States.
Despite his success with Palace, Johnson would eventually move on to Everton the following season. However, his impact on the club and the fans during his time at Selhurst Park cannot be understated. His ability to score crucial goals and inspire his team-mates was vital in helping Palace achieve their goals that season.
In the years since Johnson’s season with Palace, he has remained a respected figure in English football, with his performances that season still being talked about today. His ability to make the transition from the lower leagues to the Championship in such an impressive fashion is a testament to his talent and work ethic, and he will always be remembered as one of the most exciting strikers to have graced the Selhurst Park pitch.
8) Lucas Perez
Lucas Perez’s season with Deportivo La Coruña in 2015-16 is one that will go down in history as one of the most remarkable individual performances in La Liga history. Despite playing for a side that was fighting relegation, Perez managed to score an impressive 17 league goals and provide ten assists, making him one of the most valuable players in the league that season.
Perez’s performances were particularly remarkable given Deportivo’s struggles that season. The team was mired in a relegation battle for much of the campaign, and the fact that Perez was able to shine in such a difficult situation is a testament to his talent and determination.
What made Perez’s performances so remarkable was the fact that he was not just a goal scorer, but also a creative force in the team. His ability to provide assists for his team-mates was just as valuable as his goal scoring, and it was this all-round contribution that made him so important to the Deportivo side.
One of Perez’s standout performances that season came in a game against Espanyol, where he scored a hat-trick and provided an assist in a 4-3 victory. His ability to take the game by the scruff of the neck and produce moments of magic when his team needed it most was a hallmark of his season, and he quickly became a fan favourite at the Riazor.
Lucas erez’s success that season was not just limited to the league, as he also scored goals in the Copa del Rey. His performances earned him a move to Arsenal the following season, where he struggled to make an impact and eventually moved on to West Ham United.
Despite his struggles in the Premier League, Perez’s performances with Deportivo will always be remembered as some of the most remarkable individual displays in La Liga history. His ability to score goals and provide assists in a struggling team was a testament to his talent and work ethic, and he will always be remembered as one of the most exciting players to have played for Deportivo La Coruña.
9) Benni McCarthy
Benni McCarthy’s season with Blackburn Rovers in 2006-07 is one that will go down in history as one of the most impressive individual performances in English football history. Despite being in the twilight of his career, McCarthy managed to score an impressive 18 goals in the league and 24 goals in all competitions, including three in the UEFA Cup, making him one of the most valuable players in the league that season.
McCarthy’s performances were particularly remarkable given the fact that Blackburn Rovers were not one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League at the time. However, the South African striker quickly established himself as a key player in the team, and his goalscoring prowess was a major reason why Blackburn were able to finish in the top ten that season.
What made McCarthy’s performances so impressive was his ability to score all types of goals. He was deadly from the penalty spot, but he also had a knack for scoring spectacular goals from distance, as well as scoring goals with his head. His all-round contribution to the team was invaluable, and he quickly became a fan favourite at Ewood Park.
One of McCarthy’s standout performances that season came in a game against Wigan Athletic, where he scored a hat-trick and provided an assist in a 5-3 victory. His ability to produce moments of magic when his team needed it most was a hallmark of his season, and he quickly established himself as one of the most dangerous strikers in the Premier League.
McCarthy’s success that season was not just limited to the league, as he also scored goals in the UEFA Cup. His performances earned him a move to Portuguese giants FC Porto the following season, where he continued to score goals and win trophies.
Despite his success with FC Porto, McCarthy’s performances with Blackburn Rovers will always be remembered as some of the most impressive individual displays in English football history. His ability to score goals from all areas of the pitch was a testament to his talent and work ethic, and he will always be remembered as one of the most exciting players to have played for Blackburn Rovers.
These are just a few examples of the one-hit wonders who have graced the football pitch over the years. While their performances may have been fleeting, their impact on the game will be felt for generations to come. These players have shown that anything is possible in football, and that a single season of exceptional performances can make a player immortal. Football is a game of moments, and these one-hit wonders have given us some unforgettable moments to cherish forever.
Catch you in the next one.