The 10 Worst Teams in Premier League History
Introduction:
The Premier League has seen some truly remarkable achievements over the years, but it’s also had its fair share of disastrous campaigns. While most clubs dream of glory, a select few have found themselves stuck in the murky depths of the league. Here’s a look at the 10 worst-performing teams in Premier League history, based on points, goal difference, and all-around failure.
1. Derby County (2007–08) – 11 Points
Derby County’s 2007-08 season is often considered the worst in Premier League history. With just 11 points from 38 games, they won a single match, drew eight, and lost 29. Their goal difference was -69, with only 20 goals scored and 89 conceded. To make things worse, their relegation was confirmed with plenty of games left to play. A truly forgettable season for the Rams.
Wall-Hung Display Cases
If space is limited, wall-mounted display cases are a great choice. They save floor space but still give you an attractive way to show off your trophies. These cases can range from a simple glass shelf to something a bit fancier with built-in lighting to give your collection that extra flair. Wall-mounted units are ideal for narrower spaces, such as corridors or smaller rooms, and they make use of vertical space in a clever way.
Shadow Boxes
For individual awards like medals, plaques, or smaller trophies, shadow boxes are a great option. These display cases can either be mounted on a wall or placed on a shelf and offer a contained, dust-free environment that still lets your awards shine. You can even personalise shadow boxes with different materials behind the trophies, like velvet or felt, to really enhance the look.
Lighting and Its Role in Displaying Trophies
Lighting can make a massive difference when it comes to showcasing trophies and medals. The right lighting not only highlights the beauty of each piece but can also add atmosphere and drama to your display.
LED Cabinet Lights
LED spotlights are probably the most common choice for trophy displays. These can be aimed directly at specific awards to draw attention to them. You can also use LED strip lights or small puck lights that sit inside cabinets or shelves to offer subtle, even illumination, making your entire display pop.
UV-Filtered Lighting
Although lighting is essential, you want to avoid anything that could cause fading or damage over time. UV-filtered lights are a great choice as they help prevent damage caused by ultraviolet rays, which can cause tarnishing or discolouration on metals, fabrics, and plaques. It's all about ensuring your trophies stay looking pristine for years to come.
Accent Lighting
If your collection is larger or more varied, accent lighting can help highlight key trophies. Whether it’s for a major club win or a particularly significant award, adjustable lamps or built-in lighting in the display case can make sure these key items get the attention they deserve.
Security Considerations
If you want to keep your trophies safe from theft or tampering, a display case with a lock is a must. Many floor-standing and wall-mounted cabinets come with integrated locking mechanisms to make sure only authorised individuals can access them. This is especially important for public spaces or for collections that travel frequently.
It’s also worth considering cases that use tempered or laminated glass, which is more resistant to impact and harder to break. Some display cases come with shatterproof glass, offering even more protection. Another good idea is choosing cases with anti-reflective glass to reduce glare and ensure better visibility.
For larger collections, especially in public spaces or clubhouses, installing security cameras or a monitoring system can be a smart choice. Some modern displays come with motion sensors or alarms that trigger if someone tries to tamper with the case.
For larger, heavier floor-standing cases, you can use anti-theft bases that securely anchor the display to the floor. This makes it much harder for anyone to simply tip the case over or move it without permission.
Keeping Trophies and Medals in Good Condition
Even the best display won’t look great if your trophies are covered in dust or tarnished. Keeping them clean and in good condition is just as important as the display itself.
For open shelves, dust is always the biggest issue, so wiping trophies down once a week with a microfibre cloth can help prevent the build-up. Glass cabinets are much better at keeping dust away, but it’s still a good idea to give them a light clean now and then. Using a dust-repellent spray on glass surfaces can also help reduce static and stop dust from settling.
Trophies should always be handled with clean, dry hands, especially those with metal engraving, as constant handling can cause it to lose its shine. For silver or gold trophies, using a mild metal polish and a soft cloth will help maintain their finish. Wooden bases should be kept dry, as moisture can cause warping over time. Acrylic or plastic trophies are best cleaned with a gentle glass cleaner, as anything too harsh can lead to discolouration or scratches.
Medals, with their intricate engravings and enamel details, need a bit more care. Shadow boxes or display cases are perfect for showing off medals while protecting them from damage. If you're storing medals in drawers, it's best to place them in felt-lined compartments to avoid scratches or tangles. Clubs with large collections might want to invest in a dedicated medal cabinet with pull-out trays to keep everything organised and easy to access.
Trophy shields, often used for perpetual awards, should always be stored upright to avoid surface wear. Mounting them on angled stands or plaques keeps them in top condition and makes them stand out in the display.
Conclusion
Trophies and memorabilia represent hard-earned achievements, so taking the time to store, display, and maintain them properly ensures they remain a lasting symbol of success. Whether in a clubhouse, school, or personal collection, a well-organised display not only keeps them looking great but also adds value by celebrating the journey behind each award.