All three top-tier North East clubs have been named among the 'dirtiest' Premier League teams in history, according to analysis.

Sports and football news site Flashscore examined more than 9,000 Premier League games spanning from the 2000/2001 season to the 2023/24 season.

They based their analysis on the number of fouls committed, yellow cards, and red cards received, ranking teams by fouls per game.

To qualify for the top ten, teams must have spent a minimum of ten seasons in the Premier League, equalling 380 games.

Middlesbrough, Sunderland, and Newcastle all feature within the top ten, ranking third, fourth, and tenth respectively.

Middlesbrough FC, with just ten seasons in the Premier League, committed 4,877 fouls, received 616 yellow cards, and 32 red cards, averaging 12.83 fouls per game.

Sunderland AFC, with 14 Premier League seasons under their belt, committed 6,538 fouls, received the most yellow cards at 970, and 51 red cards, averaging 12.29 fouls per game.

(Image: Will Walker / NNP) Newcastle United, with 22 seasons in the Premier League, committed 9,691 fouls, received 1,274 yellow cards, and 50 red cards, averaging 11.59 fouls per game.

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Charlie Ford, Flashscore UK country manager, commented on the findings, saying: "The study reveals some surprising insights into which Premier League teams have consistently ranked among the most ill-disciplined on the pitch throughout their time in the league.

"While the competitive nature of football often leads to a certain level of physicality, especially in England’s top flight, the findings highlight teams that may have crossed the line more frequently, accumulating higher foul counts, yellow cards, and red cards per game.

"Teams might benefit from greater emphasis on discipline, fair play, and more refined defensive techniques to improve these standings.

"Stronger player development and officiating that reinforces clean, tactical play could contribute to reducing these numbers in future seasons."