Who Are The Best England Football Players Of All Time?: Past & Present

Football fever is at an all-time high as fans gear up for the most prestigious football tournament in Europe, the UEFA European Championship, scheduled for the summer of 2024. In anticipation of this, we reflect on the legendary past and present players from England football and delve into their most memorable performances.

As fans eagerly look forward to the Euros 2024, it's the perfect time to celebrate the incredible talent that has graced the England national football team over the years.

From exceptional goalkeepers and fearless defenders to magical playmakers and prolific strikers, England has produced some of the finest footballers in history.

Join us as we take a trip down memory lane to explore the best England football players (both past and present) of all time, and relive their unforgettable moments in the national shirt. Additionally, we also spotlight the emerging talents of England who might secure a place on this list in the future.

Who are England’s best football players in history?

1. Sir Bobby Charlton

A true icon of English football, Sir Bobby Charlton played a pivotal role in leading England to their first and only FIFA World Cup victory in 1966.

Charlton was known for his exceptional goal-scoring ability, vision, and powerful shots from midfield.

His historic goal against Mexico in the World Cup group stages set the tone for England's successful run, and his brace against Portugal in the semi-finals carried the nation to the final.

2. Sir Geoffrey Charles Hurst MBE

Forever etched in football folklore, Sir Geoff Hurst's heroics in the 1966 World Cup final remain the crowning achievement of his career. Hurst's historic hat-trick against West Germany in the final solidified his legendary status in English football history.

His clinical finishing and big-game mentality made him a standout performer for England during their greatest triumph.

3. Gordon Banks

One of the greatest goalkeepers of all time, Gordon Banks was a vital presence between the sticks for England.

His most famous moment came in the 1970 World Cup, when he produced a stunning save to deny Brazilian legend Pelé, diving miraculously to his right to palm away the seemingly certain goal.

Banks' agility, reflexes, and commanding presence made him an integral part of the England team during their successful campaigns.

4. Bobby Moore

Regarded as one of the finest defenders the world has ever seen, Bobby Moore led England to their World Cup triumph in 1966 as the team's captain.

Moore's elegant style of play, exceptional reading of the game, and composed leadership made him the anchor of the English defence.

His legendary tackle on Jairzinho in the World Cup quarterfinals showcased his defensive prowess, and his ability to initiate attacks from the back was unmatched.

5. Gary Lineker

A prolific goalscorer and a true poacher, Gary Lineker's career with the England national team was nothing short of remarkable.

He won the Golden Boot at the 1986 World Cup, scoring six goals, including a famous hat-trick against Poland to secure England's place in the knockout stage.

Lineker's clinical finishing and positional awareness made him a constant threat to opposition defences.

6. Paul Gascoigne

A mercurial talent with sublime dribbling skills and incredible vision, Paul Gascoigne, known affectionately as Gazza, lit up the England team during Euro 1996.

His audacious goal against Scotland in the group stage, where he flicked the ball over a defender before volleying it into the net, remains one of the standout moments in England's tournament history. Gascoigne's charisma and creativity endeared him to fans around the world.

7. David Beckham

Renowned for his world-class precision in delivering crosses and free-kicks, David Beckham is an English football legend.

He played a crucial role in guiding England to the 2002 World Cup with a crucial last-minute free-kick goal against Greece in a qualifying match.

Beckham's ability to score from distance and his pinpoint accuracy with long passes made him a key figure in the England setup.

8. Wayne Rooney

England's all-time leading goalscorer, Wayne Rooney left an indelible mark on the national team.

Rooney's aggression, versatility, and goal-scoring prowess were unrivalled during his prime.

His powerful strike against Russia during Euro 2004 showcased his ability to score from a distance, and his memorable volley against Uruguay in the 2014 World Cup added to his legendary status.

9. Steven Gerrard

Steven Gerrard's tenacity and leadership made him one of the greatest midfielders England has ever produced.

His goal against the United States in the 2010 World Cup, where he unleashed a ferocious long-range effort, highlighted his explosive shooting ability.

Gerrard's never-say-die attitude and unmatched work rate endeared him to fans, making him a true stalwart of the England team.

10. Harry Kane

Harry Kane - a record goal-scorer and England's leading marksman - has established himself as a potent force in international football.

Kane's clinical finishing and goal-scoring instincts have seen him rise to the top of the scoring charts for England.

His ability to find the back of the net has consistently cemented his status as a modern-day England great.

Young English Football Players To Watch Out For - England’s Rising Stars

Among the current crop of talented players on the English football scene, there are a few rising stars who have been making waves and capturing the attention of fans.

One of the players is Bukayo Saka (22), the versatile winger from Arsenal, who has been turning heads with his exceptional technical skills and maturity on the field.

Another player to watch is Jude Bellingham (20), the young midfielder who made a move to Borussia Dortmund from Birmingham City. Bellingham has been making a name for himself with his composure, vision, and ability to control the midfield.

These young talents, along with players like Phil Foden, Jadon Sancho, and Mason Mount, represent the bright future of English football and are certainly players to watch out for in the coming seasons.

It is also important to consider the potential future stars who could bring talent to the Three Lions.

England's victory in the Under-19 European Championship in the summer of 2022 is a testament to the country's wealth of talent. Premier League academies, too, are churning out a plethora of homegrown youngsters who are beginning to make their mark in the top flight.

Among these rising stars are Alfie Devine (19) of Tottenham and Lewis Hall (19) of Newcastle (on loan from Chelsea).

Devine, the youngest-ever player and goal scorer for Tottenham Hotspur, is on the cusp of a breakthrough in the first team. His exceptional performances in English youth football over the past few years have caught the attention of many.

Hall, despite primarily being seen as an energetic left-back, similarly excels in central midfield. His versatility is his greatest asset, allowing him to play various roles with confidence that belies his age.

With talents like Devine and Hall emerging, the future of English football shines brightly, ready to forge a path towards success. Keep your eyes fixed on these rising stars as they continue to bring glory to their nation.

How to watch England football live and in style

These legendary players have provided fans with countless moments of joy while representing England on the international stage.

As we look forward to the Euros 2024, you have the chance to witness the next generation of talented players in person.

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