The Eagles' long-serving right-back made his 292nd appearance in the Premier League against Bournemouth on Wednesday night, eclipsing the previous record of 291 set by Wilfried Zaha and moving him out on his own as Palace’s record appearance-maker in the competition.
It was also Ward’s 349th game for the club in all competitions, moving him level with Nigel Martyn in eighth on the all-time list.
He then surpassed that total by playing in the cruel late defeat to the Reds, overtaking the legendary goalkeeper – with Sporting Director Dougie Freedman next in his sights, on 368 appearances!
Ward joined the club in 2012 from Portsmouth and was an instant success, playing a huge role in the club’s promotion to the Premier League – including a dramatic goal-line clearance in the play-off final against Watford at Wembley.
Since Palace’s return to the top-flight he has been a mainstay in the side, occupying his customary right-back position but also filling in at left-back and in central defence, and notching five goals in the process. The most recent was an equaliser against Fulham at Craven Cottage towards the end of last season.
Since Luka Milivojevic’s departure over summer, he has served as club captain.
Palace’s record Premier League appearance makers:
- Joel Ward: 293
- Wilfried Zaha: 291
- James McArthur: 240
- Jeff Schlupp: 193
- Luka Milivojevic: 183
- Jordan Ayew: 175
- Andros Townsend: 168
- Scott Dann: 164
- Christian Benteke: 162
- Jason Puncheon: 153
Palace’s all-time appearance makers:
- Jim Cannon: 660
- Terry Long: 480
- Wilfried Zaha: 458
- Albert Harry: 440
- Julian Speroni: 405
- John Jackson: 388
- Dougie Freedman: 368
- Joel Ward: 350
- Nigel Martyn: 349
- Simon Rodger: 328
Congratulations, Joel!