Southampton Football Club, affectionately known as the Saints, has enjoyed a rich history filled with incredible talent. Over the decades, the south coast club has been blessed with players who not only showcased immense skill but also embodied the spirit and resilience that define Southampton. From prolific goal scorers to defensive rock-solid legends, Southampton's past is illuminated by individuals whose contributions remain etched in the hearts of the club's supporters. Let Wintips journey through the careers of the 10 best Southampton players and celebrate their achievements.
The 10 best Southampton players who became Premier League stars
Here are the 10 best Southampton players of all time whose names you probably know:
10. Kevin Keegan
Kevin Keegan’s arrival at Southampton in 1980 was a shock to many. Having captained England at Euro 1980, many expected him to join one of England’s traditional powerhouses. Instead, he opted for the Saints, embarking on a journey that would see him make a significant impact in a short time.
During his first season, Keegan helped Southampton secure a then-best-ever sixth-place finish, leading an attacking force that thrilled fans and neutral observers alike. The 1980/81 season saw Southampton net an impressive 76 goals, showcasing their forward-thinking approach. Keegan’s second year was even more memorable as he scored 30 goals across all competitions, earning the prestigious PFA Player of the Year award. Although Southampton ultimately slipped to seventh place, Keegan’s influence was undeniable. In just 78 appearances, he scored 43 goals, leaving a lasting impression despite his brief stay.
9. Alan Shearer
Alan Shearer’s rise to fame began at Southampton, where he burst onto the scene with a stunning hat-trick on his full debut. Although he would later achieve iconic status with Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle United, it was at the Dell that Shearer first showcased the qualities that would define his legendary career.
During his time with the Saints from 1988 to 1992, Shearer made 148 appearances, scoring 36 goals. His physicality, sharp finishing, and tactical intelligence were evident even at a young age. While his most prolific days came later, Southampton fans can proudly claim that they were the first to witness Shearer’s extraordinary talent on a professional stage.
8. Virgil van Dijk
In modern times, few players have left as immediate an impact on Southampton as Virgil van Dijk. Signed from Celtic in 2015, the towering Dutch defender quickly established himself as one of the Premier League’s finest center-backs.
Winning Southampton’s Player of the Season award in his debut campaign and being entrusted with the captain’s armband, Van Dijk’s leadership and composure at the back were instrumental to the Saints' stability. His performances attracted attention from the biggest clubs, and in January 2018, Liverpool acquired his services for a then-world record fee for a defender (£75 million). Although his Southampton tenure lasted only two and a half years, Van Dijk’s contribution to the club's modern era cannot be overstated.
7. Rickie Lambert
Rickie Lambert's story is the stuff of fairy tales. Joining Southampton in 2009 when the club was languishing in League One, Lambert quickly became the driving force behind their revival. His deadly finishing, intelligent movement, and unerring accuracy from the penalty spot (34 goals from 34 attempts) made him a fan favorite.
During his five-year stint, Lambert scored an astounding 117 goals in 235 appearances, helping the Saints achieve back-to-back promotions and return to the Premier League. His career may have declined after a move to Liverpool, but his time at Southampton remains legendary. Lambert exemplified the club’s fighting spirit and connection with its supporters.
6. Terry Paine
No player represents longevity and loyalty to Southampton better than Terry Paine. Making an astonishing 816 appearances between 1957 and 1974, Paine is the club’s all-time appearance leader, a record unlikely ever to be broken.
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Paine was a talented winger known for his incredible crossing ability and stamina. His most historic contribution came in 1966 when he scored the crucial goal that secured Southampton’s promotion to the First Division. That same year, he was also part of England’s World Cup-winning squad, making an appearance in the group stages. In recognition of his immense service, Paine was named Southampton’s Honorary President in 2013. His name remains synonymous with the club’s golden era.
5. Mick Channon
If Southampton had a symbol of relentless goalscoring prowess, it would be Mick Channon. Spanning two spells from 1965 to 1977 and 1979 to 1982, Channon netted 227 goals in 607 appearances, making him the club’s second-highest all-time scorer.
Renowned for his iconic windmill goal celebration, Channon was a prolific striker who carried the Saints during difficult periods. He also represented England 48 times, scoring 21 goals on the international stage. Channon’s contributions to Southampton laid the foundations for the club’s competitive stature during the 1970s. After retiring, he famously transitioned into a successful career as a horse trainer, but his legacy at Southampton remains firmly intact.
4. Ron Davies
Welsh striker Ron Davies was a force of nature during his time at Southampton. Between 1966 and 1973, Davies scored 144 goals in 257 appearances, terrorizing defenses with his aerial ability and natural goalscoring instincts.
Sir Matt Busby, legendary manager of Manchester United, once hailed Davies as “the finest center forward in Europe” after Davies netted four goals against Busby’s United team in a single match. This high praise was fully justified, as Davies consistently delivered goals at a remarkable rate. His name is still revered by Southampton fans who remember his exploits fondly.
3. Alan Ball
Alan Ball’s association with Southampton spanned not just as a player but also as a manager. Arriving in 1976, Ball immediately brought leadership and quality to the Saints’ midfield. His tireless work rate and football intelligence helped Southampton gain promotion to the First Division in 1978, with Ball playing in all but one game that season.
In total, he made 185 appearances for the club, scoring 11 goals. Although he would later return to manage Southampton, his influence as a player remains fondly remembered. Ball’s passion for the club was evident, and he remains one of the most respected figures in Southampton's history.
2. Peter Shilton
Between 1982 and 1987, Peter Shilton brought his immense goalkeeping talent to Southampton. Widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time, Shilton provided a near-impenetrable last line of defense for the Saints.
Winning the club’s Player of the Season award twice, in 1985 and 1986, Shilton was at the peak of his powers during his Southampton years. His performances often kept the Saints competitive against stronger sides, and his commanding presence inspired confidence throughout the team. Shilton’s contribution to both Southampton and English football as a whole places him among the sport’s immortals.
1. Matt Le Tissier
No discussion about the best Southampton players can be complete without the mention of Matt Le Tissier. Known affectionately as "Le God" by the fans, Le Tissier combined breathtaking technical ability with an eye for the spectacular.
Representing the club from 1986 to 2002, Le Tissier scored 192 goals in 513 appearances. He became the first midfielder to score 100 Premier League goals, an extraordinary feat that highlighted his knack for scoring from seemingly impossible positions. His free kicks, long-range strikes, and composed penalties are the stuff of legend.
Despite interest from bigger clubs, Le Tissier remained loyal to Southampton throughout his career, embodying the soul of the club. He produced moments of magic that live forever in the memories of fans who watched him play. Although he only earned eight England caps, those who saw him perform know he was among the most gifted players of his generation.
In conclusion
In every era, Southampton Football Club has been shaped by remarkable individuals whose passion, talent, and dedication have defined the spirit of the team. The memories they created - from unforgettable goals to heroic performances - continue to inspire fans across generations. As the Saints look toward a bright future, it is the legacy of the best Southampton players that remains a timeless reminder of what makes this club so special. Their stories live on, echoing proudly through the stands of St Mary's and in the hearts of supporters everywhere.
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