Ranking Liverpool's 5 best captains of all time

Since its birth in 1892, Liverpool have been one of England's biggest clubs. The Reds have won the English top division league title an impressive 19 times.

Liverpool have also demonstrated their might on the European circuit over the years. The Merseyside team have been crowned European Champions six times in their illustrious history, their last Champions League title coming in 2019.

Despite being perennial title contenders in the Premier League era, they won their first league title in 30 years only two seasons ago. Under Jurgen Klopp's tutelage, their long wait for a league title came to an end in the 2019-20 campaign.

It goes without saying that captains play a pivotal role in the success of any club. Leaders render direction and motivation, often leading by example in times of need. Liverpool had the good fortune of having some of the great leaders wear their iconic red kits.

On that note, let us take a look at

Liverpool's 5 best captains of all time

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#5 Ian Rush

Borussia Dortmund Legends v FC Liverpool Legends

Ian Rush is arguably the greatest goalscorer ever to play for Liverpool. The legendary centre-forward made over 600 appearances for the club, ending up with 346 goals. It is safe to say that there have been no sharpshooters like him in Liverpool's rich history.

Rush was known for tormenting defenses with his movements and tricks in the final third. The Welshman always knew how to put the ball into the net, with a knack of being in the right place at the right time. Goals and individual honors kept coming as Rush helped Liverpool win a plethora of trophies during his two spells.

Unfortunately, Rush was in the twilight of his career when he wore the captain's armband. Under his leadership, Liverpool managed to just win the League Cup in 1995 but he left an indelible mark in the history of the club.

#4 Emlyn Hughes

Emlyn Hughes of England clears the ball as Martin O''Neil of Northern Ireland looks on

Emlyn Hughes was the first captain to lift a European Cup at Liverpool in 1977, marking one of the most successful eras in the club's history. Under the tutelage of great Bill Shankly, Hughes led the Reds to a European Cup win and three league titles, among other notable achievements.

Hughes was not only a superb defender, he was extremely dominating in midfield. The centre-back was immensely talented as he excelled in more than one position throughout his career. Hughes went on to make more than 600 appearances for the club, cementing his legacy as one of Liverpool's greatest.

#3 Jordan Henderson

Manchester United v Liverpool - Premier League

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has forced his critics to eat their own words with exemplary leadership and performances over the last few years. The Englishman was initially criticized but he has shown immense improvement since taking over the armband in 2015. The Reds have enjoyed immense success under his leadership.

Henderson is a vocal leader with boundless energy and is slowly turning out to be an irreplaceable footballer in Klopp's system. The central midfielder leads fearlessly from the front. In addition to his leadership, he is also an intelligent ball player who can initiate attacks and pull strings from the middle.

Henderson is also passionate about the club and he is not shy of doing the dirty work for his team. He has etched his name into the history books by leading Liverpool to their sixth European title and a Premier League title in 30 years.

#2 Ron Yeats

Jimmy Greaves sneaks in between Ron Yeats and Tommy Smith to take the ball

Ron Yeats captained Liverpool back in the 1960s. A born leader, the legendary defender was spotted by Bill Shankly during his early years at Dundee United. Yeats chose to move to Anfield and the rest is history. He made over 450 appearances for the club during a very successful period for the team.

Yeats took over the captaincy just six months into his Liverpool tenure, quickly stamping his authority as leader. He then led Liverpool to the first division, winning the league title in 1964. The Reds were again crowned champions of England in 1966 following an FA Cup win in 1965.

It was not just about titles but how Yeats inspired a generation and captained the famous Liverpool team. The Liverpool legend has probably set the benchmark with very few getting close to his legacy in the history of the club.

#1 Steven Gerrard

Liverpool v Crystal Palace - Premier League

Steven Gerrard is arguably the biggest name in Liverpool folklore. The midfielder was one of the best of his generation, widely regarded as the best midfielder in the Premier League era. Gerrard was the heartbeat of the team and became synonymous with Liverpool over the years.

Gerrard was an all-rounder in the middle, knowing when to pass the ball, when to shoot and when to initiate attacks. In addition to his playmaking abilities, 'Stevie G' was a leader, inspiring Liverpool to do the impossible. Under his leadership, the Reds claimed victory in the 'Miracle of Istanbul' and won the Champions League in 2005 by beating AC Milan.

Gerrard's only regret might be not winning the Premier League title as a Liverpool player. He went on to spend 17 years at Anfield and played over 700 games, scoring 186 goals and providing 150 assists.