England’s greatest goalkeepers of all time, Ranked

October 16, 2025 Kris Isaksen

England has a proud history of producing world-class goalkeepers. From consistent Premier League performers to World Cup legends, these 11 shot-stoppers made their mark at club and international level. Here’s our countdown of the finest English goalkeepers in football history — starting with number 11.

11. Nigel Martyn – A quiet pioneer with lasting impact

Nigel Martyn made history in 1989 by becoming the first British goalkeeper to cost over £1 million. Although often in the shadow of David Seaman for England, he still earned 23 caps and was a reliable presence in four major tournaments.

10. Paul Robinson – Memorable moments and untapped potential

Paul Robinson’s England career began with a loss to Australia but saw him become first-choice for Euro 2004 and World Cup 2006. His infamous error against Croatia hurt his chances, yet his long spells at Tottenham and Blackburn and a goal from his own half keep his name alive in memory.

9. Chris Woods – A dependable understudy who earned his shot

Chris Woods spent much of his international career behind Peter Shilton but still notched 43 England caps. He impressed during Euro 1992, keeping two clean sheets in three games, and later became a respected goalkeeping coach after retiring in 1998.

8. Peter Bonetti – The Cat who ruled Stamford Bridge

Nicknamed ‘The Cat’ for his agility, Peter Bonetti was a Chelsea legend with 729 appearances. Though he played just seven times for England, his resilience — especially in the 1970 FA Cup final despite injury — remains part of club folklore.

7. David James – Statistically superb, but internationally inconsistent

David James ranks second in Premier League history for clean sheets with 169. Despite being seen as part of England’s ‘Golden Generation’, his international form was patchy, particularly in the 2010 World Cup where he conceded four to Germany.

6. Joe Hart – From England’s number one to early exit

Joe Hart was a dominant figure for Manchester City, with 127 clean sheets across 340 Premier League games. Although his England career ended poorly after Euro 2016, he was the undisputed number one for several years and retired in 2024.

5. Ray Clemence – A Liverpool great with European pedigree

Ray Clemence helped Liverpool to five league titles and three European Cups, establishing himself as one of Europe’s top goalkeepers in the 1970s. Despite fierce competition, he still earned 61 England caps before retiring in 1983.

4. David Seaman – Arsenal icon with international longevity

Seaman’s calm presence and shot-stopping helped Arsenal dominate the English game in the '90s. With 141 clean sheets in 344 Premier League games and 75 England caps, he featured in multiple major tournaments from Euro ’96 to the 2002 World Cup.

3. Jordan Pickford – Modern England’s Mr. Reliable

Though often criticised, Jordan Pickford has repeatedly proved his worth on the biggest stage. With 80 caps and counting, he holds the record for the longest run of England clean sheets and has been ever-present in tournament lineups under Gareth Southgate.

2. Peter Shilton – England’s most capped player

Peter Shilton’s 125 England caps remain unmatched. His leadership and composure helped him become a staple in England’s major tournament runs, while his club success with Nottingham Forest included back-to-back European Cup triumphs.

1. Gordon Banks – The World Cup-winning legend

Gordon Banks is the only English goalkeeper to win a World Cup, guiding the nation to glory in 1966. His unforgettable save against Pelé in 1970, dubbed the “save of the century,” remains one of football’s most iconic moments, sealing his place at the top of this list.