Tottenham Hotspur is a prominent club that has spent much of its 128-year history competing in the top football league in England. It has garnered numerous prestigious awards throughout its journey, including the UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, and Division One crown. In this article, bestsoccertips has selected the 10 best player in Tottenham history, individuals who, more than anyone else, stand out for their dedication to the club, personal talent, and achievements as part of winning teams. These accomplishments have been elevated beyond the field by the passion of thousands of supporters and the acumen of managers.
Top 10 Outstanding Players of All Time
Using the most recent statistics, bestsoccertips has compiled a list of the 10 most outstanding players of all time from the extensive roster of famous veteran players.
10. Paul Gascoigne 1988 to 1991
Gazza experienced a remarkable period of brilliance in his career at the club, arguably reaching its peak during his three years there. Following an impressive performance at the 1990 World Cup, he continued to showcase his excellence on the field, spreading awe and challenging every opponent in each round of the FA Cup in the following season.
However, the happiness of success was short-lived when a knee ligament injury cut short his career in the final against Nottingham Forest. Missing out on this special opportunity, he couldn’t ascend the Wembley steps with his teammates, leaving behind a great regret for both himself and the fans.
9. Pat Jennings 1964 to 1977 & 1985 to 1986
One of Tottenham’s legends, Patrick Anthony Jennings, was an extremely agile goalkeeper. His outstanding all-around ability as a goalkeeper made him a hero for many football fans, and he continued to be a hero for many, regardless of which team they supported.
Jennings is considered one of the greatest goalkeepers in the world during his time with Spurs. The Northern Irish international was honored as the PFA Player of the Year in 1976, after winning an FA Cup, two League Cups, and a UEFA Cup during his 12-year tenure with the club.
8. Martin Chivers 1968 to 1976
‘Big Chiv’ epitomized strength and goal-scoring hunger for Tottenham Hotspur. With his towering presence and exceptional scoring ability, he was dubbed as the “exemplary player of his generation,” a spirited and patient player. “Looks like a target but plays like an angel,” that’s the striking contrast Chivers brought to the pitch.
Chivers became a shining star for Spurs during their prosperous era. With 174 goals scored in 367 matches for the club, he left a bold mark in Tottenham Hotspur’s history. Chivers’ crucial goals not only made him a club legend but also helped Spurs secure significant titles like the League Cup in 1971 and 1973, as well as the UEFA Cup in 1972. His career is a glorious tale of passion, commitment, and undeniable talent.
7. Alan Gilzean 1964 to 1974
Ranked eighth in the club’s all-time goal-scoring chart, Gilzean made a strong impact on Tottenham Hotspur’s history. With 133 goals in 429 matches, he contributed to the club not only with talent but also with loyalty and dedication.
Gilzean began his career alongside legends like Jimmy Greaves and later with Martin Chivers, forming a formidable attacking duo. During the decade he spent with Tottenham, he proved himself as one of the top forwards of his era. Gilzean’s effectiveness wasn’t just in scoring goals but also in creating opportunities for teammates.
With these great achievements, Gilzean helped Tottenham Hotspur win numerous significant titles, including the FA Cup, two League Cups, and a UEFA Cup. His career is a clear testament to the perseverance, effort, and class of a great player.
6. Cliff Jones 1958 to 1968
Cliff Jones, a dangerous winger, delighted and satisfied fans at Swansea Town and Tottenham Hotspur, becoming one of the finest footballers of his generation. Jones was a key member of Tottenham’s double-winning team of 1961. Winning the FA Cup three times, one Division One title, and one Cup Winners’ Cup, he scored 159 goals in 378 appearances.
Cliff Jones’ exceptional talent impressed Tottenham Hotspur fans not only during his peak but also throughout his career. As a winger with speed and exquisite technique, Jones was one of Wales’ standout players in the 1960s, a period that laid the foundation for the fame of later names like Ryan Giggs and Gareth Bale.
5. Glenn Hoddle 1975 to 1987
Hoddle, a midfielder with special technique and versatility, tops the list of Tottenham Hotspur’s greatest players. With his delicate ball control, tactical vision, and creativity, Hoddle became a symbol of talent in the club’s history.
He played a crucial role in winning two FA Cups and the UEFA Cup, marking historic moments in Tottenham’s journey to victory. However, like Ray Clemence, Hoddle’s career also faced unforeseen challenges. The match against Anderlecht is a prime example, where an injury sidelined him, robbing him of the chance to contribute to the team’s success.
Off the pitch, Hoddle also ventured into coaching roles at Tottenham Hotspur, but couldn’t replicate the successes he achieved as a player. However, despite setbacks, Hoddle’s talent and contributions are always remembered and honored by Spurs fans.
4. Bill Nicholson 1938 to 1954
The promotion to the First Division in 1950 marked a significant turning point in Tottenham Hotspur’s history, but what truly defined the club’s greatness was the excellence of manager Bill Nicholson. With over 300 appearances for Spurs, Nicholson showed commitment and loyalty to the club, but it was as a coach that he truly wrote a remarkable chapter.
Guiding Tottenham Hotspur to the league title in 1961, Nicholson asserted his position as one of the greatest managers in English football history. Not only did he win this major title, but he also led Spurs to a total of 8 silverware during his tenure, contributing to a long-lasting and indelible club legacy.
Nicholson’s successes are not just Tottenham Hotspur’s pride but also a symbol of a team’s strength and resilience, as well as the innovation and leadership vision of a talented manager.
3. Jimmy Greaves 1961 to 1970
‘Greavsie’, or Jimmy Greaves, isn’t just considered one of the greatest forwards to grace football but also holds undeniable records in his impressive career. He made a powerful mark in football history, leaving behind a slew of timeless records, some of which still stand to this day.
As Tottenham’s all-time leading goal scorer, Greaves netted 266 goals in 380 appearances for the club, an incredibly impressive feat. With his sharp goal-scoring ability and astonishing ball control talent, he mesmerized fans and left a strong imprint on the heart of Tottenham Hotspur.
2. Dave Mackay 1959 to 1968
Dave Mackay was an indomitable force at the heart of Tottenham Hotspur, the team that became the first in the 20th century to secure a League and FA Cup double in 1961. The foundation of Spurs’ most successful team in history. He dominated the Spurs’ midfield as they clinched the double in 1961, kickstarting a run that saw the club secure two more FA Cups and a Cup Winners’ Cup.
Tottenham’s greatest-ever defender was the notable backbone of that remarkable football team, alongside his compatriot winger, Ulsterman Danny Blanchflower, the eloquent brain of that team.
1. Danny Blanchflower 1954 to 1963
Blanchflower led Tottenham to a historic league and FA Cup double in 1961 and was one of the most decorated captains and players. The Northern Irish midfielder also won the Cup Winners’ Cup and was twice named Player of the Year, earning him a place in the all-time Tottenham lineup.
The inspirational captain of the double-winning Spurs team, Danny Blanchflower, is not just Tottenham’s greatest player of all time but also in world football. “The game is about glory,” said the greatest Tottenham player of all time, and those words still adorn the stands at White Hart Lane to this day.
Conclusion
The legacy of Tottenham Hotspur is irrevocably intertwined with the iconic figures who have graced the club’s history. From the astute leadership of Bill Nicholson to the goal-scoring prowess of Jimmy Greaves, and the inspirational captaincy of Danny Blanchflower, each individual has left an indelible mark on the club’s identity. Their achievements not only brought home trophies but also instilled a sense of pride and passion within the Tottenham community. As the club continues to evolve, these legendary figures serve as beacons of inspiration, reminding us of the enduring spirit and rich heritage that define Tottenham Hotspur.
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