We weighed peak brilliance, medals and the moments that live longest in the country’s football memory. From the heroes of 1966 to the modern record-breakers, these are the finest players England has produced.

1. 1

   Bobby Moore

   West Ham United · England

   The serene captain who lifted the 1966 World Cup; the defender Pelé called the finest he ever faced.

2. 2

   Bobby Charlton

   Manchester United · England

   A Munich survivor, 1966 World Cup winner and Ballon d’Or holder, and United’s gentleman great.

3. 3

   Gordon Banks

   Stoke City · England

   A World Cup winner in goal and the author of the greatest save ever made, from Pelé in 1970.

4. 4

   Paul Gascoigne

   Tottenham / Lazio · England

   The most naturally gifted English player of his generation, unforgettable at Italia 90 and Euro 96.

5. 5

   Alan Shearer

   Newcastle United · England

   The Premier League’s all-time top scorer, a centre-forward of ruthless power and precision.

6. 6

   Wayne Rooney

   Manchester United · England

   A record-breaking scorer for club and country who did a bit of everything for well over a decade.

7. 7

   Steven Gerrard

   Liverpool · England

   A driving, match-winning midfielder who dragged Liverpool to the Istanbul miracle.

8. 8

   Frank Lampard

   Chelsea · England

   The highest-scoring midfielder in Premier League history and Chelsea’s record marksman.

9. 9

   David Beckham

   Manchester United · England

   A set-piece master and global icon whose right foot delivered on the biggest occasions.

10. 10

    Harry Kane

    Tottenham / Bayern · England

    England’s all-time leading scorer, a complete centre-forward and a relentless finisher.

A LeaguePaper editorial ranking — opinion, offered for argument.