Premier League flashback: Statistical analysis of the 2002-03 season
What's the story
Manchester United returned back to winning ways and pocketed an eighth Premier League honor. The Red Devils won the 2002-03 season ahead of defending champions Arsenal, who finished second. United had a defining season under Alex Ferguson. We take you back memory lane and present the statistical analysis of the 2002-03 season.
Champions
United sealed the title after collecting 83 points
Manchester United won the trophy after collecting 83 points from 38 matches. They went on to concede the lowest goals that season (34). The club also accounted for the second-best goal difference (+40). They also scored the second-highest goals that season (74). United registered 25 wins, 8 draws and 5 losses.
Individual stats
Ruud van Nistelrooy shines, Pires registers most assists
Manchester United's Ruud van Nistelrooy amassed the most goals (25). He was followed by Thierry Henry and James Beattie. Arsenal's Robert Pires accounted for the most assists (15). Meanwhile, Nistelrooy registered the most number of hat-tricks (3). Blackburn Rovers goal-keeper Brad Friedel accounted for the most number of clean sheets (15).
Teams
2002-03 Premier League season: Top and relegated teams
Manchester United and Arsenal qualified for the Champions League first group stage. Newcastle and Chelsea qualified for the Champions League third qualifying round. Liverpool, Blackburn and Southampton qualified for the UEFA Cup first round. Meanwhile, Manchester City qualified for the UEFA Cup third round. West Ham, West Brom and Sunderland City were the relegated sides.
Season awards
Important season awards: Premier League 2002-03
Van Nistelrooy bagged the Premier League Player of the Year. The Dutchman also won the Premier League Golden Boot that season. Arsenal star Thierry Henry won the PFA Players' Player of the Year. Alex Ferguson won the Premier League Manager of the Season. The Premier League Golden Gloves award was given to Chelsea goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini.