The 20 Greatest Tottenham Hotspur Players of All Time
Tottenham Hotspur has long been one of the most iconic clubs in English football, known for its exciting, attacking style and a loyal global fanbase. Throughout its rich history, Spurs have produced and attracted some of the most talented players the game has ever seen, goalscoring machines, charismatic captains, creative geniuses, and rock-solid defenders who’ve left their mark both at White Hart Lane and the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
From Jimmy Greaves’ legendary scoring records to Harry Kane's modern-era dominance, and from cult heroes like Ledley King to global stars like Son Heung-min and Gareth Bale, the club's story has been shaped by unforgettable individuals. This list celebrates the top 20 Spurs players of all time, based on legacy, performance, impact, and fan admiration.
1. Harry Kane
Tottenham’s all-time top scorer and modern icon, Kane combined lethal finishing with loyalty and leadership. His goals defined a generation at Spurs.
2. Son Heung-min
Beloved by fans for his energy, humility, and match-winning brilliance. One of the Premier League’s most consistent forwards over the past decade.
Read also: Arsenal's Greatest Players of All Time: Ranked from 20 to 1
3. Gareth Bale
Bale lit up North London with his explosive pace and wondergoals before becoming a Galáctico. His 2012–13 season remains legendary.
4. Jimmy Greaves
Still a benchmark for forwards, Greaves' scoring instincts were unmatched. He netted 266 goals for Spurs—a record only broken by Kane.
5. Ledley King
A one-club man and natural leader. Injuries may have limited him, but his class and reading of the game made him a defensive great.
6. Gary Lineker
Though his stay at Spurs was brief, Lineker’s quality and consistent goal scoring kept Tottenham in contention at the top during the early '90s.
Read also: Top 10 NBA Small Forwards Right Now (2025 Edition) — Ranked in Reverse
7. Paul Gascoigne
A genius on the ball and a national treasure. “Gazza” delivered unforgettable moments for Spurs, including that famous FA Cup screamer in 1991.
8. Robbie Keane
A fan favourite who always played with passion. Known for his trademark cartwheel celebration, Keane scored over 120 goals for Spurs.
9. Glenn Hoddle
One of England’s most technically gifted midfielders. Hoddle's vision, flair, and passing ability dazzled fans for over a decade.
10. Hugo Lloris
A world-class shot-stopper and long-time club captain, Lloris brought leadership and consistency between the sticks for more than a decade.
Read also: The 20 Players Who Received a Perfect 10/10 from L’Équipe
11. Christian Eriksen
The Danish maestro was the creative heartbeat of Spurs under Mauricio Pochettino. Known for his elegance and crucial goals.
12. Jürgen Klinsmann
Charismatic, clinical, and unforgettable. Klinsmann brought flair and goals in two successful stints at the club during the '90s.
13. Teddy Sheringham
An intelligent forward with superb link-up play. Sheringham was key in the 1990s and returned to the club after his Manchester United stint.
14. David Ginola
A true entertainer. Ginola’s flair and style won over the fans, and earned him the PFA Players' Player of the Year in 1999.
Read also: Chelsea's 20 Greatest Players of All Time – Ranked from 20 to 1
15. Jermain Defoe
A natural goal poacher and one of the Premier League’s most consistent scorers. His love for the club was always clear.
16. Pat Jennings
Legendary Northern Irish keeper known for his huge hands and commanding presence. Jennings was a cornerstone of Spurs’ defence in the ‘60s and ‘70s.
17. Luka Modrić
Before he became a Ballon d’Or winner at Real Madrid, Modrić pulled the strings in Spurs' midfield with elegance and intelligence.
18. Jan Vertonghen
A classy, composed defender who gave Spurs eight strong seasons. Known for his leadership and versatility at the back.
Read also: Champions League Matches – Thursday, Sept. 18
19. Ossie Ardiles
A World Cup winner who brought Argentine flair to North London. Ardiles played with style and helped usher in a new footballing culture at Spurs.
20. Dele Alli
At his peak, Dele was unplayable, scoring and assisting in key moments. Though inconsistent in later years, his early brilliance remains unforgettable.
