When it comes to ranking the best Premier League players of all-time, metrics such as overall impact, peak dominance, longevity, influence, individual brilliance, statistics and reputation typically determine a football supporters’ decision.
Naturally, lists will typically vary among fans, experts and journalists alike. Many can spend hours with friends and family discussing who is the very best. And the reasons behind them can result in educational and sometimes heated debates. Some may agree with, others may not.
And with that in mind, here at BetVictor News, we have provided the lowdown on the ten greatest participants who have plied their trade in England’s elite football division. Whether you think our selections are correct or not, there’s no denying that these players are among the best Premier League players of all-time.
The Best Premier League Players Of All-Time
10. Steven Gerrard – Liverpool
Liverpool’s inspirational leader Steven Gerrard spent his entire Premier League career carrying the hopes of the Reds faithful. Although the title eluded him, Gerrard’s influence, goalscoring ability, tough-tackling approach and overall ability to single-handedly win football matches is almost uncomparable.
During his 17 years on Merseyside, Gerrard scored 120 goals and provided 92 assists across 504 top-flight appearances. Many consider the Whiston-born star as one of the greatest English players of all-time. In terms of trophies, Gerrard lifted eight major honours which included the 2005 Champions League. A game in which Gerrard was named Man of the Match.
9. Frank Lampard – West Ham, Chelsea, Man City
There’s no denying that Frank Lampard is among the best Premier League players of all-time. No midfielder has netted more goals than Lampard’s 177 and he also registered 102 assists. Having come through at West Ham, Lampard flourished during his 13-years at Chelsea.
Having won a number of trophies at Stamford Bridge – which included three titles as well as the 2012 Champions League – Lampard’s exceptionally high and consistent performances were widely praised by teammates, pundits and journalists alike. Now Coventry boss – who will be hoping to defy the Premier League relegation odds – Lampard is considered the Blues greatest ever player.
8. Roy Keane – Nottingham Forest, Man United
When asked the best way to describe Roy Keane during his Man United glory years, many will tell you that there was nobody more aggressive, determined and influential on the pitch. The Irishman steered the Red Devils to a plethora of trophies and week-after-week, wore his heart on his sleeve.
Keane was an inspirational box-to-box midfielder who always gave 100%. He constantly strived for perfection, demanded his teammates gave it there all and was consistently consistent during his 13-year spell at Old Trafford.
7. Mo Salah – Chelsea, Liverpool
Considered one of the most productive forwards in the Premier League’s history, Mo Salah earned legendary status at Liverpool after just one season. The Egyptian King scored a staggering 32 goals in 2017-18 which was a record for a single 38-game campaign.
Salah netted a total of 193 top-flight goals and provided 94 assists in 328 appearances. He won two Premier League titles on Merseyside and set a number of goalscoring records. Most notably, the 34-year-old won four Golden Boot awards, a divisional high alongside Harry Kane.
6. Ryan Giggs – Man United
In terms of longevity, nobody comes close to Man United legend Ryan Giggs. The Welsh wizard is highly regarded as one of the best Premier League players of all-time after he spent his entire career at Old Trafford, winning 13 titles.
Not only did Giggs epitomise loyalty, the left winger consistently adapted over numerous Premier League eras to help the Red Devils cause. Known as a pacey and tricky star in his younger days, Giggs played a more intelligent role in his twilight years to great effect. Only two players have more appearances than Giggs (632) and he is the undisputed assist king (162).
5. Wayne Rooney – Everton, Man United
Wayne Mark Rooney. Having burst onto the scene with boyhood club Everton, Rooney became a legend at 2026-27 Premier League betting favourites Man United. Not only was Rooney an elite goalscorer, he was a creator, leader and winner.
Under the guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson, Rooney went from strength-to-strength and proved to be one of the most passionate and technically gifted players the league has ever played host to. During his career, Rooney scored 208 goals in England’s elite and registered 103 assists. In terms of titles, Rooney won five between 2006 and 2013.
4. Kevin De Bruyne – Chelsea, Man City
Not only is Kevin De Bruyne one of the best Premier League players of all-time, many consider him as one of the greatest midfielders to ever grace the beautiful game. Eyebrows were raised when he made a mega-money move to Man City but he quickly became a club legend.
The modern midfield master, KDB is renowned for his exceptional passing range, vision, creativity, technical ability and keen eye for goal. The Belgian-baller consistently led Man City to glory, providing 119 assists and scoring 72 goals in 288 appearances. He won the title on six occassions across his ten Etihad seasons.
3. Alan Shearer – Blackburn, Newcastle
The ultimate Premier League goal machine, Alan Shearer scored a staggering 260 goals during his time with Blackburn and boyhood club Newcastle. Helping the former to the title in 1994-95, Shearer’s goal-haul is still a Premier League record and won’t likely be beaten anytime soon.
His finishing, positioning, bravery, power and natural instinct to hit the back of the net during a time when PL football was more physical is truly impressive. He may not have been the flashiest of stars, but Shearer was feared by the most ardent of defenders.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo – Man United
Just for his 2007-08 season alone, Cristiano Ronaldo rightfully earned his place on BetVictor’s list. Off the back of his stunning campaign, he emerged as a global superstar having initially struggled for consistency.
Under the guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson, Ronaldo fine tuned his game and is considered the GOAT by football fans all over the world. From an average winger to multiple Ballon d’or winner, Ronaldo helped the Red Devils to three titles and scored a total of 103 goals and provided 37 assists.
1. Thierry Henry – Arsenal
The best Premier League player of all-time is Thierry Henry. The Arsenal legend is usually most supporters number one pick and it’s easy to see why. Henry was the complete forward who transformed Arsenal’s attack in the early 2000s.
Blessed with explosive pace, strength, charisma, elegance, composure, cunning and a keen eye for goal, Henry was simply devasting in his prime. The star of the Gunners Invincibles season in 2003-04, Henry is undoubtedly the finest player England’s elite has ever played host to.
Honourable mentions:
- Dennis Bergkamp
- Nemanja Vidic
- Sergio Auguero
- David Silva
- Rio Ferdinand
- John Terry
- Paul Scholes
- Vincent Kompany
- Rio Ferdinand
- Harry Kane
- Petr Cech
- Patrick Vieira
- Ashley Cole
- Eric Cantona
- Eden Hazard
If you intend to bet on the Premier League then please take the time to read through BetVictor’s safe and responsible gambling page which will provide good advice on how to stay in control when betting on football.
Any betting decisions should be made responsibly and there are no guarantees when it comes to match outcomes. All odds correct as of 4pm on July 16, 2026 and are subject to change.
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