GOAL rank top 25 Tottenham players of the 21st century – from Aaron Lennon to Heung-min Son

The debate surrounding Tottenham Hotspur often centres on missed opportunities and a trophy cabinet gathering dust, but what about the legacy of exceptional talent that has graced their ranks? GOAL has now stepped in to shine a light on Spurs’ finest players of the modern era—and the names on the list are rather impressive.

The highs and lows of a modern football giant

Tottenham Hotspur, often the butt of many jokes in the footballing world, carry a burden heavier than most clubs: the label of being ‘Spursy’. This moniker, used to describe their perceived ability to falter at critical moments, is a shadow that often clouds conversations about their achievements.

But this narrative overlooks the strides the club has made over the years – since the dawn of the 21st century, Spurs have transformed from mid-table regulars to perennial contenders, not just in England but on the European stage too.

From their first-ever Champions League final in 2019 to the construction of one of the world’s finest football stadiums, Tottenham have proven they are a club with ambition and vision. The billion-pound investment in their new home signifies a commitment to competing with Europe’s elite, boosting their financial standing, and attracting top talent, even as financial constraints have frequently limited their spending power in the transfer market.

In the midst of these challenges, the club has unearthed or developed a wealth of talent, players who have left indelible marks not only in Tottenham’s history but in football more broadly. These are players who have carried the weight of expectation, delivering moments of brilliance even in seasons where the ultimate prize remained elusive.

The stars of Spurs: GOAL rank top 25 Tottenham players

GOAL has taken on the daunting task of ranking Tottenham’s top 25 players of the modern era, a list that encapsulates the highs and occasional heartbreaks of the club’s journey. From those who became fan favourites for their grit and loyalty to global superstars who went on to shine on the biggest stages, the list is as diverse as it is impressive.

The ranking kicks off with Lucas Moura in 25th place, his unforgettable hat-trick against Ajax in the 2019 Champions League semi-final ensuring his place in Spurs folklore. Names like Peter Crouch and Michael Dawson, stalwarts of Tottenham’s rise during the late 2000s, follow suit. More recent arrivals such as Micky van de Ven highlight the club’s continued eye for talent.

Further up the list, the likes of Dimitar Berbatov, Rafael van der Vaart, and Luka Modric serve as reminders of Spurs’ knack for attracting players with undeniable flair and technical brilliance. Robbie Keane and Jermain Defoe, legends in their own right, are ranked alongside the defensive reliability of Toby Alderweireld and Jan Vertonghen.

GOAL’s top five choices reflect the club’s evolution: from Ledley King, the ultimate one-club man, to Christian Eriksen’s creative genius, Gareth Bale’s explosive rise to superstardom, and Heung-min Son’s joyous consistency. At number one is Harry Kane, a player who has redefined what it means to be a modern striker and a Tottenham icon.

The full list, in descending order, reads as follows:

• 25) Lucas Moura
• 24) Peter Crouch
• 23) Micky van de Ven
• 22) Michael Carrick
• 21) Stephen Carr
• 20) Michael Dawson
• 19) Eric Dier
• 18) Danny Rose
• 17) Aaron Lennon
• 16) Kyle Walker
• 15) Dimitar Berbatov
• 14) Rafael van der Vaart
• 13) Toby Alderweireld
• 12) Robbie Keane
• 11) Jermain Defoe
• 10) Dele Alli
• 9) Luka Modric
• 8) Mousa Dembele
• 7) Hugo Lloris
• 6) Jan Vertonghen
• 5) Ledley King
• 4) Christian Eriksen
• 3) Gareth Bale
• 2) Heung-min Son
• 1) Harry Kane

Legacy beyond the trophy cabinet

GOAL’s list reminds us that Tottenham’s story isn’t just about the trophies they haven’t won, but the incredible players who have made their mark at the club and beyond. It’s a history filled with pride, passion, and the occasional heartbreak, but above all, it is a testament to the allure of Tottenham Hotspur.

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