10 Best Goalkeepers in Liverpool History (Ranked)

Many argue that goalkeepers face the toughest job in football. A single mistake can lead to punishment, while a spectacular save can earn the adoration of fans. As the last line of defense, the performance of the goalkeeper can determine a team's success or failure, and Liverpool has seen goalkeepers throughout its history who have fallen into both categories.

As the most successful club in English football, the Reds have had their share of elite goalkeepers—players who have been pivotal in adding to their illustrious trophy cabinet. Beyond their on-field statistics, a goalkeeper's influence extends to team morale; a commanding presence in the box not only boosts the confidence of defenders but can also galvanize the entire squad during high-pressure moments. Throughout Liverpool's storied history, several goalkeepers have not only made incredible saves but have also played a crucial role in fostering a winning mentality within the team. As we explore the rankings of the top 10 Liverpool goalkeepers, we will consider not only their shot-stopping abilities but also their overall contributions to the team's spirit and legacy.

10. David James

Unlike other positions on the pitch, a goalkeeper’s mistakes are almost always punished, and this aspect ultimately defined James' career at Liverpool. Despite a series of errors and spending his best years at other clubs, the former England No. 1 was a key figure in Graeme Souness and Roy Evans' teams during the 1990s, consistently delivering eye-catching and crucial saves.

James made 277 appearances for the Reds, including a remarkable run of 212 consecutive matches. He was far more accomplished than many gave him credit for, recording 104 clean sheets and helping the team secure the League Cup during his seven years on Merseyside.

9. Arthur Riley

Arthur Riley, groundsman with Bob Paisley at Anfield pic.twitter.com/BJk9w00qCU

— Angies Liverpool (@angiesliverpool) June 9, 2022

Nearly a century ago, Arthur Riley made his debut for Liverpool in 1925 and is regarded as one of the figures who helped shape the club’s legacy. Initially serving as second choice behind a player who appears later on this list, Riley had to wait until 1939 to assume the role of starting goalkeeper. However, he quickly gained a reputation for his long reach and reliable hands, ultimately making 338 appearances for the club.

Although Riley did not win any silverware during his tenure, he played a crucial role in saving Liverpool from relegation on multiple occasions, securing his place in the club’s history.

8. Jerzy Dudek

Reliable yet imperfect, Jerzy Dudek will always be celebrated for his unforgettable performance in Istanbul. His remarkable antics during the 2005 Champions League Final, from the incredible save against Andriy Shevchenko to his decisive stops in the penalty shootout, have etched his name in Liverpool’s history.

Beyond that iconic match, Dudek excelled under both Gérard Houllier and Rafa Benitez, although a few notable errors—particularly against Manchester United—cast a shadow on his career. Nevertheless, his heroics in Istanbul ensure that Dudek will always be regarded as a Liverpool legend.

7. Sam Hardy

RIP Sam Hardy
The great goalkeeper who stood between the sticks when Liverpool won the league in 1906 died on 24 October 1966, aged 84. Sam kept 63 clean sheets in 240 appearances for #LFC, representing the Reds from 1905 to 1912. Later he actively played football until 1925. pic.twitter.com/Kez3Dgmv8o

— LFChistory.net (@LFChistory) October 24, 2023

Like Arthur Riley, Sam Hardy may not be a household name today, but he was a significant figure for Liverpool in the early 20th century. The Englishman spent seven years at the club, serving as a reliable presence in goal for most of his tenure—only once making fewer than 30 appearances in a season. Throughout his 240 appearances, Hardy kept 63 clean sheets and played a crucial role in securing the First Division title during the 1905/06 season. He later moved on to Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest, leaving behind a solid legacy at Liverpool.

6. Pepe Reina

Taking over from Jerzy Dudek in 2005, Pepe Reina made an immediate impact at Liverpool, winning the Golden Glove award in his first three seasons and quickly becoming a fan favorite on Merseyside. Considered Liverpool's best goalkeeper of the Premier League era until Alisson's arrival, Reina's charismatic and eccentric personality uplifted team morale and enhanced the performance of those around him. Despite his impressive contributions, he left the club after nine years with a League Cup, FA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and Community Shield to his name.

Although his form waned towards the end of his tenure at Liverpool, particularly in his early years, few could rival his shot-stopping ability, decision-making, or skill with the ball at his feet. Now 42 and still active, the World Cup winner and two-time European Championship winner has enjoyed a highly successful playing career.

5. Elisha Scott

The first King of the Kop #OnThisDay in 1893, the great Elisha Scott was born  pic.twitter.com/aicxbou0sE

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) August 24, 2019

Elisha Scott, the man who kept Arthur Riley out of the starting lineup for so long, is a legendary figure at Liverpool and had a remarkable career at Anfield. He played a pivotal role in back-to-back First Division victories and was famously described by a reporter in the early 1920s as a goalkeeper possessing "the eye of an eagle, the swift movement of a panther, and the clutch of a vice."

Scott's popularity among fans was unparalleled; in 1932, supporters even protested to thwart a potential transfer to bitter rivals Everton. Only two goalkeepers in Liverpool's history have made more appearances than him, a testament to his enduring legacy and impact at the club.

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4. Tommy Lawrence

In memory of Tommy Lawrence, LFC Legend... pic.twitter.com/OTxBOHfOM1

— Liverpool FC USA (@LFCUSA) January 10, 2018

Legends can often be overlooked, and Tommy Lawrence is a poignant example of this, despite being one of Liverpool's finest goalkeepers. In a BBC interview about the 1967 Merseyside derby, the reporter shockingly did not realize that Lawrence had played in the match.

Former Liverpool goalkeeper Tommy Lawrence has died aged 77.
This is the moment one of our reporters unwittingly met him in 2015 talking about one of the most memorable games of his career. pic.twitter.com/U4Sn5zpjyE

— BBC North West (@BBCNWT) January 10, 2018

A crucial member of Bill Shankly's squad throughout the 1960s, Lawrence helped secure the club's first-ever FA Cup and two First Division titles. Affectionately nicknamed 'The Flying Pig' by fans, he made over 390 appearances for Liverpool, recording 133 clean sheets during his impressive 14-year tenure at the club.

3. Bruce Grobbelaar

Despite his eccentricities and memorable moments, Bruce Grobbelaar was undeniably a world-class goalkeeper. Arriving at Liverpool largely unknown, the Zimbabwean enjoyed a remarkable 13-year tenure, leaving behind a trophy cabinet that rivals most and making a lasting impact on the club.

Grobbelaar's playful antics during the 1984 European Cup final solidified his reputation as a cheeky character, as his infamous 'spaghetti legs' bewildered Roma's players during the shootout, ultimately leading Liverpool to victory. His consistent performances under the management of Bob Paisley, Joe Fagan, and Kenny Dalglish further established him as one of the game's greats, earning him the third spot on this list.

2. Alisson Becker

The only factor preventing Alisson from securing the top spot on this list is his longevity, as the Brazilian has quickly established himself as not just one of Liverpool's greatest goalkeepers, but also among the best in world football. With his efficiency on the ball, positional awareness, and exceptional shot-stopping abilities, Alisson embodies the ideal 'modern goalkeeper.'

Since signing for £67 million from AS Roma in 2018—a world-record fee for a goalkeeper at the time—he has proven to be worth every penny, playing a crucial role in Liverpool's Champions League and Premier League victories. At 32, Alisson is well on his way to ascending to the top of this list, and at his current trajectory, it's likely only a matter of 'when' rather than 'if.'

1. Ray Clemence

It was on this day in 1967 that #LFC signed goalkeeper Ray Clemence, who played 665 games and won 12 major trophies. pic.twitter.com/rlnRgNly1u

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) June 24, 2015

With 665 appearances, 319 clean sheets, and a trophy cabinet that many can only dream of, Ray Clemence stands out as a true legend. He is not only one of the most influential players in Liverpool's history but also one of the greatest goalkeepers the English league has ever seen—though Peter Shilton's remarkable career meant Clemence didn’t receive as many international call-ups as his talent warranted.

During his time at Liverpool, Clemence won five League titles, three European Cups, two UEFA Cups, a UEFA Super Cup, an FA Cup, a League Cup, and five Community Shields, making him one of the most decorated players in the club's history.

Imposing, agile, and acrobatic, Clemence was nearly impossible to beat. His prowess was particularly evident during the 1978/79 season when he conceded just 16 league goals in 42 appearances, solidifying his status as a goalkeeping great.