England’s 25 Greatest Footballers of All Time – Ranked

August 21, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

Who is England’s greatest ever footballer? It’s the age-old pub debate that spans generations, tactics, and trophies. From post-war icons to Premier League superstars, some players have defined decades, not just for their clubs, but for the nation.

This gallery counts down the top 25 male English players of all time. Whether they lifted the World Cup, won the Ballon d’Or, or just played with unmistakable brilliance, these men shaped what English football means around the world.

25. Raheem Sterling – The Modern Game Changer

One of England’s brightest talents in the 21st century, Raheem Sterling has become synonymous with speed, skill, and success. A key part of Manchester City’s domestic dominance, he’s won four Premier League titles, an FA Cup, and four League Cups.

Sterling was also crucial in England's Euro 2020 campaign, scoring three goals, including the opener in a historic win over Germany. His versatility and work rate continue to define the modern wide forward.

24. Michael Owen – Teenage Sensation Turned Icon

Michael Owen exploded onto the global stage at the 1998 World Cup with a stunning solo goal against Argentina, instantly becoming a household name.

He scored 40 goals in 89 England appearances, placing him among the country's top scorers. Though injuries shortened his peak, Owen's Golden Ball win and stints at Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Manchester United proved his world-class quality.

23. John Terry – Chelsea’s Captain, Leader, Legend

A rock in Chelsea’s back line, John Terry was as commanding in defense as he was dangerous in the opposition box, netting 41 goals—the most by any Premier League centre-back.

The former England captain led the Blues to five league titles and was part of their 2012 Champions League-winning squad. His 78 caps reflect a distinguished international career, despite its controversies.

22. Glenn Hoddle – The Magician with the Ball

Glenn Hoddle’s elegance and technical brilliance earned him a cult following, particularly at Tottenham where he became an icon.

Often underappreciated during his career, Hoddle’s vision and passing range were ahead of their time. He was a mainstay in Bobby Robson’s 1980s England side—and even found pop stardom in a duet with Chris Waddle.

21. John Barnes – Brazil-Beating Wing Wizard

John Barnes combined power and flair like few others. After impressing at Watford, he helped Liverpool dominate in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, winning two league titles and two FA Cups.

Barnes is best remembered internationally for his sensational solo goal against Brazil at the Maracanã in 1984—a rare feat, executed with his weaker foot.

20. Frank Lampard – Midfield’s Most Reliable Finisher

With 177 Premier League goals, Frank Lampard redefined what a midfielder could be. Chelsea’s all-time leading scorer, he also won three league titles and a Champions League medal.

Lampard earned 106 England caps and was one-half of the nation's eternal midfield puzzle alongside Steven Gerrard—a duo that never quite clicked, despite their brilliance.

19. Billy Wright – The First to 100 Caps

Billy Wright was the first footballer in the world to reach 100 international caps—and captained England 90 times across three World Cups.

A loyal one-club man, Wright led Wolves during their golden era in the 1950s, guiding them to three First Division titles and pioneering early European fixtures under the Molineux floodlights.

18. Steven Gerrard – Liverpool’s Captain Marvel

Steven Gerrard was Liverpool’s talisman throughout the 2000s, forever etched in history for inspiring the Reds’ miraculous comeback in the 2005 Champions League final.

He earned 114 England caps and captained the side under Roy Hodgson, participating in five major tournaments. His long-range goals and leadership defined a generation.

17. Tom Finney – The Preston Plumber Turned Legend

Tom Finney, a one-club man for Preston North End, exemplified grace and humility. After serving in WWII, he became one of England’s most respected players, winning 76 caps.

A selfless forward known for his assists, Finney’s artistry on the field earned high praise, including from Bill Shankly, who called him “the greatest player I ever saw.”

16. Paul Scholes – Quiet Genius of Old Trafford

Part of Manchester United’s famed Class of ‘92, Paul Scholes was a master of timing, vision, and shooting from range. He won 11 Premier League titles and played over 700 games for the Red Devils.

Though his England career ended earlier than most expected, Scholes still left memorable international moments, including a brace against Scotland at Hampden Park.

15. Peter Shilton – England’s Ironman Between the Sticks

Peter Shilton is England’s most capped player with 125 appearances. His career spanned over three decades, and he featured in three World Cups.

Though he’s often linked with Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal, Shilton was a stalwart keeper with two European Cups to his name at Nottingham Forest and more than 1,000 league appearances.

14. Rio Ferdinand – England’s Elegant Enforcer

Rio Ferdinand redefined defending with his blend of technique and athleticism. Twice the world’s most expensive defender, he won six Premier League titles and a Champions League with Manchester United.

Ferdinand earned 81 England caps and was a vocal leader who brought composure and flair to the national team’s back line.

13. Kevin Keegan – Star at Home and Abroad

A trailblazer for English players overseas, Kevin Keegan became a hero at Liverpool and Hamburg—winning two Ballon d’Ors in the process.

Known for his fiery drive and iconic perm, Keegan captained England and won three First Division titles. His legacy as both a player and manager is enduring, if occasionally emotional.

12. Ashley Cole – The Complete Modern Full-Back

Ashley Cole mastered both sides of the game: he was quick and clinical going forward, yet one of the best one-on-one defenders England’s ever produced.

An Arsenal Invincible and Chelsea mainstay, he earned 107 caps and was widely feared—just ask Cristiano Ronaldo, who once requested to be subbed off rather than face him.

11. Sir Stanley Matthews – The Wizard of the Dribble

Photo: ALLYOU Grzegorz Wasowicz / Shutterstock.com

Playing until the age of 50, Stanley Matthews remains one of football’s most enduring figures. The first Ballon d'Or winner and a master technician, he brought magic to Blackpool and Stoke.

His performance in the 1953 FA Cup Final—dubbed the “Matthews Final”—and praise from Pelé and Charlton cement his place among the all-time greats.

10. Wayne Rooney – England’s Record-Breaking Forward

Rooney became England’s all-time leading scorer (later overtaken by Kane) and Manchester United’s highest scorer of all time. His aggressive style and natural talent made him a standout from his teenage debut at Euro 2004.

A five-time Premier League winner and Champions League victor, Rooney blended grit and genius.

9. David Beckham – The Global Icon with a Golden Right Foot

Known for his pinpoint delivery and Hollywood persona, David Beckham captained England with distinction and enjoyed a storied career at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and beyond.

With 115 caps, Beckham’s set pieces and work ethic turned him into a national hero—especially after his redemption free-kick against Greece in 2001.

8. Alan Shearer – The Premier League’s Deadliest Marksman

With 260 Premier League goals, Alan Shearer remains untouchable at the top. A lethal striker with Blackburn and Newcastle, he led England’s attack in the late ‘90s, scoring 30 international goals.

Powerful, clinical, and consistent, Shearer embodied the archetype of the traditional English No. 9.

7. Paul Gascoigne – England’s Brilliant Wildcard

Gazza lit up the 1990 World Cup with his skill and emotion, becoming an instant fan favorite. His tears in the semi-final symbolized England’s heartbreak—and his passion for the game.

Unpredictable off the pitch but genius on it, Gascoigne’s flair and fearless play made him a once-in-a-generation entertainer.

6. Gordon Banks – The Man Behind That Save

Best known for his miraculous stop from Pelé at the 1970 World Cup, Gordon Banks was the backbone of England’s 1966 World Cup-winning defense.

He won 73 caps and remains one of the game’s most respected goalkeepers. His consistency and calm under pressure were hallmarks of a golden era.

5. Gary Lineker – The Gentleman Goal Machine

Lineker won the Golden Boot at the 1986 World Cup and scored 48 goals in just 80 England games. Notably, he never received a single booking in his career.

From Leicester to Barcelona to Spurs, Lineker's poacher instincts and professionalism made him one of the game’s most admired forwards.

4. Sir Bobby Charlton – The Heart of ’66

A survivor of the Munich air disaster and hero of the 1966 World Cup, Sir Bobby Charlton was England’s soul on and off the pitch. He scored 49 goals for his country and remains one of Manchester United’s greatest ever.

His powerful shooting, leadership, and dignity made him a symbol of resilience and excellence.

3. Harry Kane – The Relentless Record-Breaker

England’s current captain and all-time top scorer, Harry Kane has led by example at every tournament since 2018. He won the Golden Boot at the World Cup in Russia and continues to deliver in clutch moments.

Kane combines old-school finishing with modern intelligence, anchoring England’s hopes for a major trophy.

2. Bryan Robson – Captain Courageous

Often overlooked in top lists, Bryan Robson was the ultimate box-to-box midfielder. Nicknamed “Captain Marvel,” he embodied the fighting spirit of both Manchester United and England.

Though injuries plagued his international career, Robson's impact and leadership earned him legendary status.

1. Sir Bobby Moore – The Eternal England Captain

The only Englishman to lift the World Cup, Sir Bobby Moore remains the most iconic defender in the nation’s history. Calm, composed, and impossibly elegant, Moore led by example.

His performance against Brazil in 1970 and his 108 caps are still held in reverence. For many, Bobby Moore is England.