10 greatest English footballers of all time

#2 Stanley Matthews

Sir Stanley Matthews - The Wizard of Dribble

Legendary is a word gigantic enough to describe the kind of a footballer. In Sir Stanley Matthews' case, however, the word seems considerably inadequate. His trophy cabinets might speak very little of his career, but the Englishman has achievements few can come close to.

Having donned the Stoke City shirt for 19 years and the Blackpool one for another 14, Sir Stanley Matthews is England's oldest footballer till date. He played until the age of 50 and is the only footballer to have been knighted whilst being an active player.

Known for his terrific dribbling, he was nicknamed as The Wizard of Dribble back in his days. He also earned a great reputation for being a pin-point crosser of the ball, while playing as an outside right for his clubs and country.

Football may be known as a man's game, but Sir Stanley Matthews was its perfect gentleman. He is one of those rare players who were never booked or sent off for any of their tackles. He also became immortal in history as the inaugural winner of the Ballon d'Or.

The Three Lions have given birth to a good chunk of legends after him, but they are still waiting to produce one that matches the longevity of the great Sir Stanley Matthews.