Liverpool's Greatest: Predicting the Top Five as Reds Ask Fans to Vote for 100 Best Players Ever

Liverpool FC has launched a monumental fan poll to determine the club's 100 greatest men's players since 1892, with voting open until April 30, 2026. Building on previous editions in 2006 and 2013 like '100 Players Who Shook the Kop,' this update accounts for recent triumphs and modern icons. A statistical model created a longlist of 250 players based on key metrics, and fans must select their top 25 via an online form, considering ability, impact, success, and legacy. Votes will merge with inputs from Forever Reds (former players) and journalists for the final ranking, with countdown starting in June and top 10 revealed live in July.[3][4]

As anticipation builds, the article predicts the top five contenders, drawing from historical rankings and fan reverence:

1. Kenny Dalglish – 'King Kenny,' Liverpool's most revered figure with a stand named after him at Anfield. Over 13 years (1977-1990), he won 6 League Titles, 3 European Cups, scored 172 goals, and even managed a FA Cup double. Runner-up in 1983 Ballon d'Or.[1][2]
2. Ian Rush – All-time top scorer with 346 goals in 660 appearances. Lethal in big moments, including 5 FA Cup final goals; won 5 League Titles, 2 European Cups, and 1984 European Golden Boot.[1][2]
3. Steven Gerrard – Ultimate captain (1998-2015), 186 goals, key in 2005 Champions League miracle, FA Cup 2006, and multiple cups. Symbol of loyalty and leadership.[2]
4. Virgil van Dijk – Transformative defender since 2018; Premier League and Champions League winner (2019-2020). Arguably the Reds' best ever centre-back, bringing unmatched composure.[1][2]
5. Mohamed Salah or John Barnes – Salah (180+ goals, Golden Boot, major trophies) edges modern debate, while Barnes (1987-1997) dazzled with 108 goals and 2 League Titles as 'Wizard of the Wing.'[2]

Other legends like Luis Suarez, Kevin Keegan, and Roberto Firmino loom large, but Dalglish's dual player-manager legacy cements his throne. This poll promises debate, honoring Anfield's rich history amid fresh eras under Klopp.[1][2]

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