Last month the Premier League announced a brand new Hall of Fame, created to celebrate the greatest players to grace the English game.
Intended to be the highest individual honour awarded to any player by the league, it’s sure to be the cause of many arguments among rival fans.
“Since 1992, the Premier League has been home to world-class players who have defined generations and provided us with compelling football season after season,” Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said.
“A place in the Premier League Hall of Fame is reserved for the very best. It will be an occasion for our fans around the world to look back over the years and help us celebrate some truly exceptional playing careers.”
Unfortunately due to coronavirus pandemic, the opening ceremony, where the first two names were set to be revealed, has been postponed.
We can still continue our speculation on who those first inductees will be, by taking a look at the bookies’ favourites. (Odds via Skybet)
Alan Shearer 1/12
The general consensus is that the ex-Newcastle man is almost certain to be the first name in the Hall of Fame.
283 career goals cement Shearer as one of the greatest goalscoring strikers in Premier League history, making it hard to argue with his inclusion.
Ryan Giggs 1/6
Boasting the most assists in Premier League history as well as more League winners medals than anyone, Giggs seems a shoe-in.
Aside from the unrivalled success, it’s the Welshman’s longevity is the thing that sets him apart from most.
Thierry Henry 4/1
Few sights could compete with Thierry Henry in full-flow, the Frenchman was most probably the most elegant-yet-lethal player to play in the league.
If Henry doesn’t make it into the first two names, it’s nailed on that he’ll be in there next time round.
Paul Scholes 16/1
Paul Scholes was mesmerising on a football field, his ability to command games from the centre circle was astounding.
The midfielder is also the only player that comes close to Giggs in terms of honours, with 11 Premier League winners medals compared to his former teammates 13.
Roy Keane 16/1
The greatest leader the league has seen? Many would argue the point for the terrifying Irishman.
Thanks to his persona, it’s often easy to forget how talented a player Keane actually was, combine that ability with his leadership qualities and 16/1 may seem.a little unfair.
Agree with the bookies? Who else should be in the top five?
Featured image credit: Getty