Historic milestone for Tamil representation in English football
Vimal Yoganathan has made history as the first Tamil footballer to score in the English Football League (EFL), achieving the milestone during Barnsley’s 2–1 League One win against Doncaster Rovers earlier this season.
The 19-year-old central midfielder, who came through Liverpool’s academy, has since returned to Anfield with Barnsley in the FA Cup third round — facing his former club on one of English football’s most iconic stages.
His achievement comes in a sport where South Asian representation remains limited. Figures previously showed that out of around 5,000 professional footballers in England, only 22 were of South Asian heritage.
“It is possible that a Tamil player can play football”
Speaking about the significance of his journey, Yoganathan said:
“I never really thought I would be able to have this sort of platform and showcase to people that it is possible that a Tamil player can play football.”
He added that being visible at this level still feels surreal:
“It’s a bit mad to say but obviously I’m happy that I can, you know, showcase that to people and show it is possible.”
From Liverpool Academy to Professional Football
Born on January 13, 2006, in Trelawnyd, north Wales, Yoganathan is of Sri Lankan Tamil heritage and holds Welsh nationality. He joined Liverpool’s academy as a child and remained there until 2022, before signing his first professional contract with Barnsley.
He made his senior debut in August 2023 in an EFL Cup match against Tranmere Rovers, becoming the first Tamil footballer to play professionally in England. Since then, he has made around 40 appearances for the Yorkshire club across competitions.
Scoring History and Cementing his Place at Barnsley
Yoganathan’s historic EFL goal came in League One, the third tier of English football, when he opened the scoring against Doncaster Rovers. He has since netted two league goals and featured regularly during the 2024/25 season, playing in all of Barnsley’s last seven matches.
His performances have helped secure him a consistent role in Barnsley’s League One squad.
Playing at England’s Biggest Stadiums Before Turning 20
Despite his young age, Yoganathan has already played at Wembley Stadium, Old Trafford and Anfield.
Reflecting on the experience, he said:
“19, Old Trafford, Wembley, Anfield, it’s pretty decent right? I don’t think a lot of players in their whole career in the EFL even get to go to one of them.”
He added:
“It’s mad that I’ve gone to all three in the space of what just over a year… whatever happens with the score and whatnot just playing against the best.”
During Barnsley’s FA Cup tie against Liverpool, Yoganathan played 88 minutes at Anfield as his side lost 4–1.
Loan spell and Promotion success with Oldham Athletic
Last season, Yoganathan was loaned to Oldham Athletic in the National League. He made 17 appearances, scoring twice and providing three assists, and played 84 minutes in the playoff final at Wembley as Oldham secured promotion back to the EFL with a 3–2 win over Southend United.
Representing Wales Internationally
At international level, Yoganathan represents Wales and has featured regularly for the Wales Under-19s, with recent involvement at Under-21 level as well.
Why Yoganathan’s Achievement Matters
Yoganathan’s breakthrough carries wider meaning beyond footballing success. For young Tamil and British South Asian players, his presence in the EFL offers visible proof that professional pathways are possible in a sport where representation has long been scarce.
At just 19, his name is already written into English football history — with much of his career still ahead.
Watch a video here:
@barnsleyfc 💫 First league goal for Vim 🔥 🔟 up for DKD How we secured victory in Doncaster this afternoon! 👊
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