Onyeka, Bassey Could Set New Nigerian EPL Yellow-Card Record
Frank Onyeka and Calvin Bassey could set an unwanted piece of Nigerian Premier League history during the 2026/27 season, with both players among those who could become the first Nigerian to collect 10 yellow cards in a single campaign.
The milestone would be an unwanted disciplinary record rather than an achievement, but it could attract attention as Nigerian players attempt to avoid making history for the wrong reasons.
According to Opta’s Premier League data dating back to the 2006/07 season, the highest number of yellow cards collected by a Nigerian in a single campaign is eight.
Onyeka reached that figure with Brentford in the 2023/24 season, while former Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi also recorded eight yellow cards in several Premier League seasons.
Onyeka is back in the Premier League with Coventry City after making his move permanent following a loan spell at the club last season. His combative style in midfield could once again put him among the players with the highest disciplinary tallies.
Bassey is another player who could challenge the existing record. The Fulham defender collected seven yellow cards during the 2024/25 season and remains a key figure in his club’s defence. His physical approach and regular involvement in defensive situations could see his tally rise during the new campaign.
Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina is also among the Nigerians to watch after collecting five yellow cards in the 2024/25 season, while Semi Ajayi returns to the Premier League with Hull City after previously recording a season-high three bookings.
The numbers provide a clear disciplinary benchmark. Nine yellow cards would establish a new Nigerian Premier League record, while 10 would make Onyeka, Bassey, Aina, Ajayi or any other Nigerian the first to reach double figures in a single Premier League campaign since Opta began collecting the data.
The overall Premier League record is considerably higher, with Étienne Capoue receiving 14 yellow cards and one red card for Watford in the 2018/19 season
