Wales's most prolific striker of the late 1980s and 1990s — a quick, intelligent forward who scored at every club he played for.
Dean Saunders won the League Cup with Aston Villa in 1994 and earned 75 caps for Wales, scoring 22 goals to rank among the country's most prolific international strikers of his era. He played for a string of top English clubs including Liverpool, Derby County and Sheffield Wednesday during a career spanning the late 1980s and 1990s, before moving into management. After retiring, Saunders moved into management with several English and Welsh clubs, and remains one of the most recognisable Welsh forwards of his generation for his goal-scoring exploits during a nomadic top-flight career.
Being Wales' leading scorer at the time of his retirement
He became the most capped outfield player for Wales at the time with 75 appearances.
Did You Know?How They Played
Pacey striker with good finishing ability and movement in the box
Lasting Impact
One of Wales' most prolific strikers and a key player in their 1990s teams
Career Honours
- League Cup 1994
- 75 Wales caps
- 22 Wales goals
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brighton | 1986–1987 | 46 | 47 | #9 |
| Oxford United | 1987–1988 | 42 | 18 | — |
| Derby County | 1988–1991 | 119 | 55 | — |
| Swansea City | 1982–1985 | 103 | 38 | — |
| Cardiff City | 1985–1986 | 41 | 18 | — |
| Aston Villa | 1992–1995 | 119 | 35 | — |
| Galatasaray | 1995–1996 | 26 | 8 | — |
| Nottingham Forest | 1996–1997 | 28 | 7 | — |
| Sheffield United | 1997–1999 | 73 | 17 | — |
| Benfica | 1999–2000 | 13 | 2 | — |
| Liverpool | 1991–1992 | 44 | 10 | — |
 Wales | — | 75 | 22 | — |