8 best Southampton players of all time
Southampton is a football club with a proud history, not only famous for its resounding victories but also for the legends that have been with it for decades. These excellent players not only contributed to the club’s reputation but also left a strong mark in the hearts of fans, engraved in the history of English football. From the leaders of the attack, to the warriors in the defense and even the legendary goalkeepers, each individual has a separate story of dedication, talent and loyalty. Join Kingsoccertips to look back at the best Southampton players, who have created an indispensable part in the history of English football.
Top 8 best Southampton players
Here are the top 8 Southampton best players who have left a deep mark and contributed to building the club’s great legacy.
Top 8: Virgil van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk is widely regarded as one of the best defenders ever seen in English football, and his career at Southampton cemented his exceptional talent. Signed from Celtic in 2015 for £13 million, Van Dijk immediately made a significant impact at St Mary’s. In his first season, he was named Player of the Year, and within a short period, he was handed the captain’s armband. His combination of technical ability, aerial dominance, and calmness under pressure made him a solid rock in the defense.
Not only did Van Dijk become a star at Southampton, but he quickly established himself as one of the top defenders in the Premier League, attracting the attention of top clubs. After two and a half years at the club, Liverpool signed him for a world-record fee for a defender of £75 million. His time at Liverpool would elevate him to the pinnacle of his career, but his foundations at Southampton were key to him becoming one of the greatest players in football history.
Top 7: Rickie Lambert
Rickie Lambert is one of the greatest goal scorers in Southampton’s history, known for his diverse and accurate finishing. He made an impressive mark by scoring 100% from the penalty spot, converting 34 out of 34 attempts. After joining Southampton from Bristol Rovers in 2009, Lambert immediately demonstrated his goal-scoring abilities, becoming the club’s top scorer and netting 36 goals in his first season. This achievement not only helped Southampton earn promotion to the Championship in 2011 but also paved the way for their return to the Premier League in 2012.
Although his career at Liverpool in 2014 did not reach the same heights as his time at Southampton, where he delivered his best performances, Lambert’s contributions to the club remain unforgettable. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest players in Southampton’s history.
Top 6: Terry Paine
Terry Paine is one of the greatest icons in Southampton’s history, holding the club’s record for most appearances. With unwavering loyalty, Paine spent nearly his entire career at Southampton, becoming an integral part of the club’s history. His crucial goal in helping the Saints gain promotion to the First Division in 1966 is one of his many key moments. In the same year, Paine was also part of the England team that won the World Cup, making his mark on the international stage when he played in the group match against Mexico.
Paine’s standout skill was his pinpoint crossing ability, often described as “putting the ball on the sixpence.” His exquisite technique, sharp tactical vision, and dedication made him a well-rounded player adored by fans. In recognition of his immense contributions, Paine was named Honorary President of Southampton in 2013, a testament to the legendary status he holds at St Mary’s.
Top 5: Mick Channon
Mick Channon is one of Southampton’s greatest goal scorers, ranked second in the club’s all-time goal-scoring list. Known for his pace, sharpness in the box, and versatile finishing, Channon was a constant threat to opposing defenses for years. Over two spells at the club, he consistently found the net, becoming the club’s top scorer for seven consecutive seasons, a record that highlights his impact and class. Alongside his club career, Channon earned 48 caps for England, scoring 21 goals, proving his international talent.
Channon is not just remembered for his goals but also for his iconic “windmill” celebration, which became synonymous with his name. Even after retiring and pursuing a career in horse training, he remains highly regarded by Southampton supporters. The club’s decision to name a suite at St Mary’s in his honor is a clear indication of the respect he commands. With a legacy both on and off the field, Mick Channon will forever be a proud part of Southampton’s history.
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Top 4: Ron Davies
Ron Davies is one of Southampton’s greatest-ever forwards, a goal-scoring icon during the club’s golden era. Signed in 1966 for a record fee of £55,000 – a significant sum for Southampton at the time – Davies immediately proved his worth with an incredible goal-scoring record. In his first season, he scored 37 goals in 41 appearances, winning the league’s Golden Boot and establishing himself as a top-class striker. His blistering form led legendary manager Matt Busby to call him “the best centre-forward in Europe” after his four-goal performance against Manchester United in 1969.
Davies not only made a stellar start but maintained high performance throughout his career at Southampton, netting nearly 150 goals for the club. A nightmare for opposing defenses, he embodied the ideal traditional striker: powerful, good in the air, and clinical in front of goal. His contributions make him not only worthy of his record transfer fee but also one of the greatest goal scorers in Southampton’s history.
Top 3: Alan Ball
Alan Ball, who played for Southampton in two separate stints before managing the club, is a true legend of the club and a passionate advocate for it. Helping the club gain promotion in 1978, Ball played in every match that season except one, giving his all for the Saints from the moment he arrived.
After joining from Arsenal in 1976, despite interest from other clubs, Ball immediately showed his passion for Southampton’s loyal supporters. His role in the club’s promotion to the First Division in 1978 was undoubtedly his best achievement with the club, though his League Cup runners-up medal in 1979 came close. Returning in 1981, persuaded by Kevin Keegan and Mick Channon, Ball was part of a team that nearly won the First Division title.
Top 2: Peter Shilton
Peter Shilton is not only one of England’s legendary goalkeepers but also a key figure in Southampton’s history. With 125 caps for the national team – a record that still stands – Shilton demonstrated his elite level of skill throughout his illustrious career. His time at Southampton was one of the standout phases of his career, as he helped the club reach three semi-finals and finish as runners-up in the First Division, something rarely achieved by a South Coast club. With his exceptional reflexes, consistency, and leadership in defense, Shilton was a reliable presence between the sticks for the Saints.
Though Shilton did not win many major trophies with Southampton, his impact was undeniable. He was named the club’s Player of the Year in two consecutive seasons (1985 and 1986), highlighting his immense influence on the team. Known as “the cat among the sticks,” Shilton not only frustrated countless opposing forwards but also helped Southampton become a competitive force in England’s top league. His legacy as one of the club’s greatest players and a true icon of English football is indisputable.
Top 1: Matt Le Tissier
Matt Le Tissier is the greatest icon of Southampton, a true legend with an unparalleled loyalty to the club. Spending his entire professional career at Southampton, Le Tissier became the club’s all-time Premier League top scorer and epitomized creativity, flair, and technical mastery. Familiarly known as “Le God” by fans, he produced countless magical moments, from stunning long-range goals to delicate touches that left opponents in awe. Despite only earning eight caps for England, Le Tissier’s talent was always regarded at the highest level.
As the first midfielder to score 100 goals in the Premier League, Le Tissier was not only a deadly finisher but a true football artist. His ability to score free kicks, take penalties, and deliver incisive passes struck fear into opposing defenses. For Southampton supporters, no one can compare to Le Tissier – a player who combined loyalty with brilliance and turned St Mary’s into his personal stage throughout his legendary career.
Final Thoughts
With the best Southampton players mentioned, Southampton is not only a football club but also an indispensable part of the history of English football. From great victories to touching moments, these players have made the name of the club, leaving a deep mark in the hearts of fans. They are not only the people who have been with Southampton through the years but also the symbols of loyalty, talent and relentless fighting spirit. No matter how much time passes, these legends will always be precious memories, the pride of the club and the fans. Southampton has been and will always be the cradle of great talents, those who have written history, and continue to inspire the next generation.
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