Ranking the 20 greatest goalkeepers in Premier League history

October 31, 2025 Kris Isaksen

The Premier League has been home to some of the most iconic and game-changing goalkeepers in football history. From commanding presences in the box to innovators with their feet, these are the shot-stoppers who left an undeniable mark on England’s top flight. Here’s a countdown from number 20 to 1 of the greatest goalkeepers ever to grace the Premier League.

20. Kasper Schmeichel – steady and fearless like his father

Kasper Schmeichel had immense expectations placed on him, being the son of Peter Schmeichel, but he carved his own legacy. As Leicester City’s number one during their unforgettable 2015/16 title-winning season, his consistency and leadership made him a crucial figure across 284 Premier League games.

19. Mark Schwarzer – Australia's safe hands

Mark Schwarzer enjoyed an incredible 20-year Premier League career, appearing in 514 matches. Whether with Middlesbrough, Fulham, or Chelsea, his reliability and 152 clean sheets made him one of the most dependable keepers in league history.

18. Tim Howard – Everton’s American wall

Known for his reflexes and commanding voice, Tim Howard tallied 132 clean sheets over 399 Premier League appearances. His peak years at Everton saw him become a club legend, even scoring a goal from his own box – a rare feat for any goalkeeper.

17. Thibaut Courtois – short spell, big impact

Despite only playing 126 games in the Premier League, Courtois won two league titles with Chelsea. His towering presence and calm under pressure made him one of the best in the world during his time at Stamford Bridge.

16. Nigel Martyn – underappreciated consistency

Nigel Martyn might fly under the radar today, but his 372 league appearances with Crystal Palace, Leeds, and Everton tell a story of dependable brilliance. He was a traditional goalkeeper who won the trust of every backline he stood behind.

15. Pepe Reina – Liverpool’s Spanish wall

Pepe Reina was a modern, agile goalkeeper known for his quick thinking and smart positioning. Across 297 league appearances—mostly with Liverpool—he secured 136 clean sheets and helped redefine the role in the mid-2000s.

14. Hugo Lloris – Spurs’ long-standing captain

Hugo Lloris gave Tottenham over a decade of stability, with 361 appearances and countless crucial saves. As captain, he led by example and was at his best during the club’s Champions League run and big domestic clashes.

13. Neville Southall – Everton’s all-time great

Though he played most of his career before the Premier League era, Neville Southall’s impact was still felt with 208 appearances. Known for his bravery and quick reactions, Southall remains a legendary figure in Everton’s storied history.

12. David James – England’s quiet stalwart

David James played 572 Premier League games, more than most on this list, for clubs like Liverpool, West Ham, and Portsmouth. Known for his athleticism and dramatic saves, he was a constant in English football for over a decade.

11. Joe Hart – Manchester City’s early era hero

Joe Hart helped usher in Manchester City’s new golden age, winning two Premier League titles. With 127 clean sheets in 340 matches, his passion and agility made him a fan favorite and a key part of City's rise.

10. Brad Friedel – Mr. Reliable

Brad Friedel holds the record for most consecutive appearances in the Premier League at 310. Known for his strong hands and impeccable fitness, the American racked up 132 clean sheets across 450 games for clubs like Blackburn and Aston Villa.

9. Shay Given – Newcastle’s dependable last line

With 449 appearances, Shay Given was one of the most reliable keepers in the league, particularly during his long stay at Newcastle. His reflexes and bravery earned him 113 clean sheets and immense respect across the league.

8. Jens Lehmann – Arsenal’s Invincible

Jens Lehmann was key to Arsenal’s unbeaten 2003/04 season, earning the Golden Glove that year. His fiery personality and sharp instincts helped define an era for the Gunners, even with only 148 league appearances.

7. Ederson – the modern goalkeeper

Ederson changed the way we think about goalkeeping in the Premier League with his distribution and confidence on the ball. With 122 clean sheets in just 276 appearances for Manchester City, his role has been vital to their tactical success.

6. David De Gea – United’s lone star in transition

David De Gea overcame early criticism to become Manchester United’s standout performer during a tough decade. With 147 clean sheets in 415 appearances, his reflexes and shot-stopping made him one of the league’s best.

5. Alisson Becker – Liverpool’s game-changer

Alisson’s arrival at Liverpool brought instant results, including a Champions League and two Premier League titles. With 97 clean sheets in 235 games so far, he remains one of the most complete goalkeepers the league has ever seen.

4. David Seaman – Arsenal’s foundation

David Seaman was the face of goalkeeping during the early Premier League years. Known for his composure and remarkable saves, he kept 141 clean sheets in 344 appearances and won multiple titles with Arsenal.

3. Edwin van der Sar – the calm commander

Van der Sar brought stability and class to Manchester United, helping the club to four Premier League titles. His calmness, consistency, and 132 clean sheets in 313 appearances make him one of the best of his era.

2. Petr Cech – the record breaker

With a record 202 Premier League clean sheets, Petr Cech’s legacy is unmatched statistically. His dominance during Chelsea’s rise and later contributions at Arsenal solidified him as a Premier League icon.

1. Peter Schmeichel – the Premier League’s greatest

Peter Schmeichel was the complete goalkeeper—commanding, athletic, and a leader in every sense. His heroics during Manchester United’s dominance in the '90s, including their treble win, earned him the top spot in Premier League history.