The Premier League stands as the peak of English football, where only the elite players manage to break through — let alone represent some of the country’s biggest clubs. In today’s game, the level of professionalism required means that anyone pulling on a Premier League shirt must not only be gifted but also carry themselves with top-class discipline.
Proper rest and recovery after matches are essential, and avoiding the temptations of a party lifestyle is seen as a basic part of being a pro. Step out of line, and you’re bound to face the consequences, both on and off the field — just ask Marcus Rashford.
However, for Jermaine Pennant, a night out drinking unexpectedly became a pivotal moment at the start of his top-flight career. While his choice of “preparation” before his Premier League debut is certainly not one to emulate, it’s a wild story that reflects the turbulent career of the former winger — who later even starred in a Champions League final.
Jermaine Pennant’s Arsenal Debut
A memorable hat-trick — despite the hangover
Back then, Pennant had only been on the bench without making an appearance in the Premier League that season. Assuming he had no chance of playing, he decided to enjoy himself, partying until 6 a.m. and drinking heavily. To his shock, despite barely sleeping and still reeking of alcohol, he found out the next day that he was in Arsenal’s starting lineup.
Recalling the moment, Pennant said:
> “I’d had about three hours of sleep and still stunk of booze. Wenger pulls the board down, reads out the lineup, and there’s my name.”
He continued:
> “I’d been out the night before because I genuinely didn’t think I’d be playing, especially with guys like Pires, Ljungberg, and Parlour all fit. I assumed I’d just sit on the bench. So, I thought, ‘Why not go out?’ and ended up at an FHM party till morning. When I saw my name in the team, I couldn’t believe it. I was still hungover during the game, trying my hardest not to mess up. I felt awful — the vodka was still swirling in my stomach, and you could smell it on me.”
You might expect this story to end in disaster — but instead, Pennant delivered one of the most memorable performances of his career, scoring a 10-minute hat-trick, one of the fastest in Premier League history.
Jermaine Pennant’s Career Journey
From Arsenal debut to Champions League final
After leaving Arsenal in 2005, Pennant’s career took him to several clubs, showcasing both his undeniable talent and inconsistency. He first made a mark at Birmingham City, where he was a standout performer despite their relegation in 2006. His displays earned him a move to Liverpool, where he played a major role, including starting in the 2007 Champions League final against AC Milan — although Liverpool would lose that match.
Despite flashes of brilliance, Pennant struggled to maintain form and eventually fell out of favour under Rafa Benitez.
In 2009, he took his career abroad, joining Spanish side Real Zaragoza. Unfortunately, his time in Spain was short-lived due to off-field issues and poor performances. He returned to England with Stoke City in 2010, where he enjoyed a relatively stable period, helping them reach the FA Cup final in 2011, though they lost to Manchester City.
After Stoke, Pennant’s career became more unsettled, with brief spells at clubs like Wolves, Wigan, and Bury. He also ventured to India to play for Pune City in the Indian Super League in 2014.