The 2007–08 Premier League season will be the 16th since it began in 1992-93. It starts on Saturday and will end on the 11th of May next year. The league held its first season in 1992–93 and was originally composed of 22 clubs.

The first ever Premiership goal was scored by Brian Deane of Sheffield United in a 2–1 win against Manchester United.

This season, the Premier League is changing its sponsored name from the Barclays Premiership to the Barclays Premier League. The season also sees the Premier League introduce a new theme song, logo, typeface for player names and numbers, and patches.

Based on the performances of member clubs in European competitions over a five-year period, with the 2006-07 season results in consideration, the Premier League is unofficially ranked second behind Spain’s La Liga, but ahead of Italy’s Serie A in the Uefa rankings of European leagues.

The title has been won by only four teams: Manchester United (nine times), Arsenal (three times), Chelsea (twice), and Blackburn Rovers (once).

Records

Most titles won: 9, Manchester United (1992-93, 1993-94, 1995-96, 1996-97, 1998-99, 1999-00, 2000-01, 2002-03, 2006-07)

Most consecutive title wins: 3, Manchester United F.C. (1998-99, 1999-00, 2000-01)

Most wins in a season (38 games): 29, Chelsea (2004-05,2005-06)

Most losses in a season (38 games): 29, Sunderland (2005-06)

Most Premier League appearances: 521 (as of May 13 2007), Gary Speed, (1992 to present)

Oldest player: John Burridge, 43 years and 162 days (for Manchester City v. Queen’s Park Rangers, May 14, 1995).

Youngest player: Matthew Briggs, 16 years and 65 days (for Fulham v Middlesbrough F.C., May 13, 2007)

Most consecutive Premier League appearances: Frank Lampard (164).

(Agencies)