Almost 5,000 players have featured in the Premier League since the division was introduced in 1992. However, it takes more than just ability to flourish in England’s top flight with only the best of the best earning legendary status.
Ahead of the new campaign kicking off, Express Sport ranks the nine greatest players to have ever graced the Premier League…
8. Steven Gerrard
You could easily argue that Steven Gerrard is the greatest Premier League player to have never won a league title. He was desperately unlucky, with his infamous slip against Chelsea ruining his best chance of lifting the iconic trophy.
His ability could not be questioned, though, given that he had every attribute required of a world-class midfielder. Gerrard was also a key figure in helping Liverpool to win the Champions League, UEFA Cup and seven other domestic competitions.
(Image: GETTY)
7. Ryan Giggs
It should be no surprise that Ryan Giggs makes this list, having represented United for nearly a quarter of a century. During that time, he won a staggering 13 league titles as well as the Champions League and countless domestic trophies.
You could make the case that Giggs was never the best player on his team, given the wealth of talent that United had over the years. However, he would not have stayed at Old Trafford for 23 years if he wasn’t good enough to be there.
(Image: GETTY)
6. Kevin De Bruyne
Kevin De Bruyne is the best midfielder the Premier League has ever seen, racking up 111 assists during his time at Manchester City. He was the heartbeat of the team, who would have struggled to win as many titles without him pulling the strings.
His start to life in the Premier League was a muted one, with the Belgian flopping at Chelsea during the early stages of his career. He went on to become a legend at City and they will be hard-pressed to find another playmaker with the same level of quality.
(Image: GETTY)