The History of Squad Numbers

Recently, we examined how the ‘classic’ English numbering system came into being through a series of gradual changes. Different methods evolved in different countries, however. If you’re on this site, you …

Often, a lament at the state of modern squad numbering is accompanied with a longing for how things were in the old days, when everything was seemingly in order. We …

We are indebted to Matteo of Jersey Vice for his help in providing information and insight – we would highly recommend perusing the site with the aid of your translation …

Generally, England tend to be numbered fairly well – especially nowadays, when they are one of the last countries to retain 1-11 for internationals outside of major tournaments. However, the …

We do enjoy when clubs ‘tidy up’ their numbers, i.e. the re-assignment of first-teamers with higher numbers. As the days of 1-11 fade further, there is less of this re-allocation of …

A year ago, to mark the 25th anniversary of the introduction of squad numbering to the Premier League, we examined how sides allocated their numbers and how they lined up …

Another entry in our series where we focus on a game celebrating its anniversary which is of historical squad-number significance. Forty-six years ago today, Ajax achieved a third European Cup …

We threw the question out there on Twitter earlier, and we will admit that we half-expected the replies that came: When was the last time two Premier League teams played …

Jay Mansfield has been compiling a comprehensive history of Rangers’ kits on his blog, but he took time out to take a thorough look at the club’s numbering foibles: I’ve recently …

The English National Football Archive has been of immense help in researching this This season marks the 25th anniversary of the introduction of squad numbering in the Premier League, the …