11 Extremely Talented Premier League Footballers That Were Ruined By Injuries

4. Abou Diaby

Michael Johnson Man City
Adam Davy/EMPICS Sport

When Diary arrived at Arsenal in 2006, the comparisons to Patrick Vieira were hard to ignore. His ball control, physique and athleticism made him one of Europe's biggest prospects. Sadly, though, the Frenchman went on to pick up 42 injuries in 10 years with Arsenal (more than twice the number of goals he scored in that time). 

Of the 10 seasons he spent at the club, he only made 20+ league appearances in two campaigns. Though he can boast 16 international caps, a player of his potential could have easily won more than 50 over the course of his career. 

Since being released by Arsenal in the summer, Diaby has signed a pay-as-you-play deal with Ligue 1 strugglers Marseille. At the age of 29, the Frenchman is yet to make his 200th career appearance as a professional. 

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Journalism student hopping between London and the North-East. Boxing enthusiast and Football Manager addict. Was diagnosed with supporting Sunderland AFC as a child.