The Premier League has witnessed a concerning trend in the severity of hamstring injuries, with players being sidelined for longer periods. Despite a decrease in the number of such injuries this season compared to the 2023/24 campaign, the data reveals a significant rise in the duration players are out of action.

Current Injury Statistics

• 2024-25: 124 hamstring injuries (as of 28th April)
• 2023-24: 163
• 2022-23: 138
• 2021-22: 129
• 2020-21: 122

Ben Dinnery, an injury analyst, notes that while the overall trend of muscle injuries remains static, the severity of hamstring injuries is worsening. In the 2023-24 season, 52% of hamstring injuries were long-term, keeping players out for more than 30 days. This trend has continued into the current season.

Notable Cases

High-profile players like Arsenal's Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz, and Chelsea's Nicholas Jackson have suffered long-term hamstring injuries this season, highlighting the growing issue.

Causes of Hamstring Injuries

The hamstring, a group of three muscles, is crucial for running, speeding up, and slowing down. Injuries occur when these muscles are overstretched and tear. Sports performance physiotherapist Nick Worth emphasizes that previous hamstring injuries are a significant risk factor. The high-intensity nature of football, involving explosive movements and minimal recovery time between games, exacerbates the risk.

Prolonged Recovery Times

Several factors contribute to extended recovery periods:

• Rehab Programs: Over-rehabilitating players to reduce re-injury risks.
• Injury Type: Tendon-based injuries take longer to heal.
• Fatigue: Stiffer muscles from fatigue are less capable of high-speed performance.

Position-Specific Risks

Certain positions, like wing-backs, are more prone to hamstring injuries due to the higher number of explosive sprints required during a game.

Conclusion

The rising severity of hamstring injuries in the Premier League calls for a reevaluation of training, recovery, and injury prevention strategies to safeguard players' health and performance.