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The Spurs Legends: Ranking the 8 Greatest Tottenham Players of All Time

Tottenham Hotspur is a flourishing club with a rich 128-year history, predominantly competing in the top tier of English football. Throughout its storied past, the club has secured numerous prestigious accolades, including the European Cup, the FA Cup, and the Division One title. Discover some of the greatest Spurs players of all time in this article.
Anna Ciao
By: Anna Ciao

Tottenham Hotspur, a major force in the Premier League and English football, has a storied history filled with legendary players who have proudly worn the club's iconic white kit. Since its inception in 1882, Spurs fans have seen numerous celebrated names come and go, each leaving a lasting impact on the club's legacy.

Throughout their journey, marked by both triumphs and challenges, Spurs have been known for their attacking style of play, strong community spirit, and significant growth, especially in the past decade. The club has witnessed captains hoisting trophies, unforgettable goals, and magical moments that epitomize the true spirit of being a Spurs supporter.

From the inspirational leadership of 1961 double-winning captain Danny Blanchflower to the remarkable goal-scoring feats of modern hero Harry Kane, Tottenham's history is rich with stars who have defined different eras and won the admiration of fans globally. When it comes to choosing their favorite player, Spurs fans often have varied opinions. Here at Betimate, we have narrowed down the list and ranked the eight greatest players to have ever represented Tottenham.

Ranking factors

  • Overall stats, including goals, assists and games played
  • Trophies won
  • The impact they had on the team
  • Their popularity with the fans

Rank

Name

Years

1

Harry Kane

(2009-2023)

2

Jimmy Greaves

(1961-1970)

3

Danny Blanchflower

(1954-1964)

4

Gareth Bale

(2007-2013) (2020-2021)

5

Glenn Hoddle

(1975-1987)

6

Paul Gascoigne

(1988-1991)

7

Heung-min Son

(2015-present)

8

Ledley King

(1999-2012)

8. Ledley King

“Ooh Ledley Ledley, he’s only got one knee, he’s better than John Terry, ooh Ledley Ledley” was a chant that reverberated around White Hart Lane in the early 2000s. King was renowned for his exceptional one-on-one defending, elite awareness, and commanding leadership. He possessed all the qualities of a top-tier defender.

As the centre-back who captained Tottenham to their 2008 League Cup victory under Juande Ramos, King played a crucial role in securing the club's last major honor. His unique presence endeared him to Spurs fans, who instantly fell in love with him. There's something undeniably special about a one-club man, and King epitomized that loyalty and leadership.

Regrettably, injuries plagued King throughout his career, leading to the well-known "One Knee" chant. Persistent knee problems ultimately forced him to retire in the summer of 2012.

King's influence at Spurs, however, extended beyond his playing days. When Jose Mourinho arrived in August 2020, he appointed King as his assistant first-team coach. In this role, King remained dedicated to giving back to the fans who had always supported him. Ledley King embodies the spirit of Tottenham, both on and off the pitch. His enduring presence continues to bring joy to fans worldwide, solidifying his status as a true Spurs legend.

7. Heung-min Son

On August 28, 2015, Tottenham Hotspur signed a relatively unknown South Korean winger from Bayer Leverkusen for £22 million. It seemed unlikely at the time that this player would become one of the greatest to ever play at White Hart Lane.

However, Heung-min Son quickly made his mark on the Premier League with his quick feet, blistering pace, and prolific finishing. Opponents soon learned that giving him even a glimpse of goal was a recipe for trouble.

Son has earned several accolades, including the 2020 Puskas Award and the 2021/22 Premier League Golden Boot. His performances in Europe have also been outstanding, playing a crucial role in Spurs’ unexpected Champions League run in the 2018/19 season, scoring key goals against Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund.

Beyond his talent on the field, Son's caring personality has endeared him to Tottenham fans. Manager Ange Postecoglou quickly took a liking to Son, naming him the club's captain following Harry Kane's departure to Bayern Munich.

With his exceptional skill and charisma, Heung-min Son has firmly established himself as one of Tottenham's all-time greats, both as a player and as a person. As Spurs aim to end their trophy drought, fans look to Son to lead the team to long-awaited silverware.

6. Paul Gascoigne

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Anna Ciao
Written by: Anna Ciao
Anna Ciao is a sports content contributor at Betimate. Born and raised in a rural village in China, I have had a passion for football and various sports such as basketball, volleyball, badminton, from a young age. Along with diligent studies, I achieved an IELTS score of 8.0 in the English language, and I have become a content contributor specializing in sports, particularly football, as I am today. I hope that my articles are helpful to readers.

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