England’s 25 Greatest Footballers of All Time — Ranked by the Fans
Which players have truly defined English football? From world champions to modern stars, fans have voted to decide the top 25 England players in history. Here's the countdown, starting at number 25.
25. Trent Alexander-Arnold
Despite a relatively modest England career so far, Trent Alexander-Arnold’s playmaking skills from right-back have caught the eye. Though he’s often played second fiddle to Kyle Walker, fans clearly see world-class potential in his technical ability and vision.
24. John Barnes
John Barnes dazzled fans with his flair at Watford and Liverpool, but his England career never quite matched those heights. Still, his 79 caps and impact on the anti-racism movement have left a lasting legacy far beyond the pitch.
23. Sol Campbell
A rock at the back for England across six consecutive major tournaments, Sol Campbell was a dominant presence. His move from Tottenham to Arsenal may have sparked controversy, but few question his credentials as one of the country's best-ever centre-backs.
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22. Peter Shilton
With 125 caps, Peter Shilton is England’s most-capped player and a reliable presence between the sticks for two decades. Often underrated, he's remembered both for his consistency and for being on the wrong end of Maradona’s infamous ‘Hand of God’.
21. Ian Wright
Ian Wright’s England career never quite mirrored his club success, but his 33 caps and nine goals don’t tell the full story. Beloved today as a pundit and personality, Wright remains one of the most cherished figures in English football culture.
20. Jimmy Greaves
A truly elite goalscorer, Jimmy Greaves struck 44 goals in just 57 England appearances. Though injury cost him a place in the 1966 final, his scoring record for Spurs and England remains legendary.
19. Jude Bellingham
At just 22, Jude Bellingham has already earned his spot among England’s all-time elite. His dramatic bicycle-kick goal against Slovakia at Euro 2024 and commanding performances for Real Madrid show he’s just getting started.
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18. Paul Gascoigne
Gazza wasn’t just a footballer — he was a phenomenon. With dazzling footwork, raw passion, and unforgettable moments like the ‘dentist chair’ celebration, Paul Gascoigne remains one of England’s most beloved and naturally gifted players.
17. Sir Stanley Matthews
The first-ever Ballon d’Or winner and the oldest to receive it at age 41, Sir Stanley Matthews played professional football for over 30 years. Known as "The Wizard of the Dribble," his impact on the game is immortal.
16. John Terry
John Terry was the beating heart of England’s defence during the 2000s. A born leader, he combined fearless tackling with underrated technical skill and formed formidable partnerships at the back with the likes of Ferdinand and Campbell.
15. Rio Ferdinand
Calm under pressure and silky on the ball, Rio Ferdinand was the modern centre-back before it was trendy. He collected 81 caps for England and was a pillar of Sir Alex Ferguson’s dominant Manchester United sides.
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14. Ashley Cole
Arguably the greatest left-back England has ever produced, Ashley Cole was a defensive wall and an attacking outlet. He earned 107 caps and famously got the better of Cristiano Ronaldo on multiple occasions.
13. Gordon Banks
Best known for his jaw-dropping save from Pelé in 1970, Gordon Banks was the 1966 World Cup-winning goalkeeper. His reflexes, leadership, and calm presence made him an all-time great in English goalkeeping.
12. Michael Owen
Michael Owen burst onto the scene as a teenager at the 1998 World Cup with that unforgettable solo goal against Argentina. Despite injury setbacks, he ended his England career with 40 goals in 89 appearances — and a Ballon d'Or to his name.
11. Kevin Keegan
A two-time Ballon d’Or winner and one of England’s few true continental superstars, Kevin Keegan shone at clubs like Liverpool and Hamburg. His legacy as a player far outshines his brief and tumultuous managerial spell with the national team.
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10. Gary Lineker
Known today as a broadcaster, Gary Lineker was once one of England’s deadliest strikers. He netted 48 goals in 80 caps, won the Golden Boot at the 1986 World Cup, and remains a gentleman of the game — never receiving a single career booking.
9. Harry Kane
England’s current record goalscorer, Harry Kane has proven doubters wrong at every turn. With over 100 caps and a World Cup Golden Boot, the Bayern Munich striker continues to lead by example as England's attacking talisman.
8. Paul Scholes
Paul Scholes was adored by the world’s best players for his technical brilliance and passing range. Though underutilized at the international level, he was a midfield maestro who defined an era at Manchester United.
7. Frank Lampard
The highest-scoring midfielder in Premier League history, Frank Lampard was a consistent performer for both club and country. His 106 caps and relentless drive helped define England’s 'Golden Generation'.
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6. Alan Shearer
The Premier League’s record scorer with 260 goals, Alan Shearer brought that same ruthless efficiency to England. With 30 goals in 63 caps, he led the line with power, precision, and an unmistakable presence.
5. Bobby Moore
Captain of the only England side to win a World Cup, Bobby Moore is still the benchmark for defensive excellence. Known for his elegance, reading of the game, and leadership, he remains one of the most iconic figures in English football history.
4. Steven Gerrard
A relentless competitor and clutch performer, Steven Gerrard made 114 appearances for England and often carried the team through tough moments. Whether scoring screamers or breaking up attacks, he did it all from midfield.
3. Wayne Rooney
A generational talent with unmatched versatility, Wayne Rooney became both England and Manchester United’s all-time top scorer. He burst onto the scene at Euro 2004 and remained a key figure for more than a decade.
2. David Beckham
From villain to hero, David Beckham’s journey as England captain is etched into football folklore. With 115 caps, 32 assists, and countless iconic moments, Beckham’s passion and precision defined an era.
1. Sir Bobby Charlton
The ultimate English football icon, Sir Bobby Charlton won the Ballon d’Or in the same year England lifted the World Cup. His blend of power, grace, and humility made him the embodiment of English footballing excellence — and the greatest to ever do it.
