Ranking the 15 Greatest English Attackers in Football History

September 29, 2025 Oliver Obel

England has always been a nation obsessed with football, and its attackers have been at the heart of some of the sport’s most unforgettable moments. From Wembley’s roar in 1966 to stunning solo goals on the world’s biggest stage, English forwards have shaped the country’s football identity for generations. These players weren’t just goal scorers – they were icons, leaders, and entertainers who carried the hopes of a nation on their shoulders.
When we talk about the greatest English attackers, we’re looking at more than just numbers on a scoresheet. This list considers international performances, club success, individual accolades, and most importantly, legacy. Each player included here has left an indelible mark on the game, inspiring future generations and contributing to the story of English football. Narrowing it down to just 15 names was no easy task, but these are the players who stood out as the very best.

15. Ian Wright

Ian Wright was one of England’s most natural finishers, but competition for places limited him to just 33 caps. His highlight came in 1993 when he scored four goals in a 7–1 win over San Marino, showcasing his lethal instinct.

14. Bukayo Saka

Bukayo Saka is already one of England’s brightest stars despite still being in his early 20s. Twice named England Men’s Player of the Year, his consistency and clutch goals have been crucial in recent tournament runs.

13. Teddy Sheringham

Teddy Sheringham was known for his intelligence and link-up play, forming the famous SAS partnership with Alan Shearer. His layoff to Shearer against the Netherlands at Euro ’96 remains one of England’s most memorable moments.

12. Dixie Dean

Dixie Dean remains one of England’s most prolific scorers, netting 18 goals in just 16 appearances. His two hat-tricks for the Three Lions cemented his status as a true goal machine of his era.

11. Sir Tom Finney

Sir Tom Finney was a versatile forward capable of playing anywhere along the front line. Known for his skill and creativity, he earned praise from legends like Bill Shankly, who called him one of the greatest of any era.

10. Sir Stanley Matthews

Sir Stanley Matthews was the first English Ballon d’Or winner and is widely regarded as one of the finest wingers ever. His career was partly interrupted by WWII, but his dribbling and flair made him an immortal figure of the game.

9. Kevin Keegan

Kevin Keegan was a two-time Ballon d’Or winner and one of England’s most electric players of the 1970s. His energy, charisma, and goalscoring ability made him a fan favourite and a star wherever he played.

8. Michael Owen

Michael Owen burst onto the scene with his iconic solo goal against Argentina at the 1998 World Cup. Injuries limited his peak years, but he still finished as one of England’s most clinical goalscorers with 40 goals.

7. Jimmy Greaves

Jimmy Greaves boasts the best goals-to-game ratio in England’s history, scoring 44 in 57 caps. Though injury kept him out of the 1966 final, his legacy as a natural goalscorer remains unmatched.

6. Alan Shearer

Alan Shearer was England’s talisman throughout the 1990s, winning the Golden Boot at Euro ’96. His powerful finishing and leadership made him the ultimate number nine for nearly a decade.

5. Gary Lineker

Gary Lineker was one penalty away from becoming England’s all-time leading scorer. Renowned for his sharp movement and clinical touch, he remains one of the most respected strikers of his generation.

4. Raheem Sterling

Raheem Sterling was often England’s most dangerous attacking threat in the late 2010s. His goals and assists were crucial in leading England to the Euro 2020 final and restoring belief in the national team.

3. Sir Geoff Hurst

Sir Geoff Hurst became a legend by scoring a hat-trick in the 1966 World Cup final – a feat no one else has matched. His performance delivered England their first and only World Cup, cementing his place in history.

2. Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney became England’s record appearance-maker among outfield players and was their all-time leading scorer until Kane surpassed him. Despite a lack of team trophies, his talent and passion made him a generational icon.

1. Harry Kane

Harry Kane is England’s current captain and all-time leading goalscorer. A World Cup Golden Boot winner, he continues to lead the line as England look to finally end their long wait for a major trophy.