These five defenders epitomised Arsenal’s defensive excellence, contributing to some of the club’s greatest triumphs and setting standards for future generations. Their fullbacks were a key part of their defence, needing to be resilient in defence, whilst still offering themselves in attack. Here is a list of their greatest fullbacks.
Arsenal’s Five Greatest Fullbacks of All Time
5. Lee Dixon
A pillar of Arsenal’s defence for 15 years, Lee Dixon made 619 appearances, ranking fourth in the club’s all-time list. Known for his positional intelligence and reliability at right-back, Dixon was also effective going forward. He notched 28 goals, an impressive tally for a defender. He played a crucial role in Arsenal’s 1998 double and was twice named in the PFA Team of the Year. His dedication and sharpness made him a mainstay through managerial changes and squad overhauls. Dixon retired after helping Arsenal to another league title in 2002.
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4. Lauren
One of the Invincibles. Lauren won two Premier League titles and three FA Cups with the Gunners, including scoring a memorable penalty against Tottenham as Arsenal closed in on the 2001/02 title. His composure under pressure and consistency made him a fan favourite and a key part of one of the Premier League’s greatest ever defences.
3. Nigel Winterburn
Mr.Consistent, Winterburn spent 13 years at Arsenal, locking down the left-back spot and forming part of the legendary ‘Back Four’. His professionalism and attacking prowess made him stand out. He won three league titles, two FA Cups, a League Cup, and a European Cup Winners’ Cup. He actually contributed some important goals, such as his right-footed strike against Wimbledon during the dramatic 1988/89 title race.
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2. Pat Rice
A true legend of the club, Pat Rice played 528 times for the club, captaining the side through some of its most memorable moments. He led Arsenal to three consecutive FA Cup finals from 1978 to 1980, lifting the trophy in 1979 after a thrilling 3-2 win over Manchester United. Rice was also a survivor of the 1970/71 Double-winning squad and even later served Arsenal with distinction as a coach, contributing to the club for an incredible 44 years.
1. Ashley Cole
Ashley Cole rose through Arsenal’s youth ranks to become arguably the Premier League’s best left-back. Some even consider him the greatest left-back of all time. Making his debut at 18, Cole was a vital part of the 2001/02 Double-winning side and the Invincibles of 2003-04. Cole’s pace, defensive acumen, and attacking threat made him indispensable. He won two league titles and three FA Cups before his controversial departure in 2006. Although, he tarnished his Arsenal legacy by making a move to rivals Chelsea, every Arsenal fan would agree he is the best fullback the club has ever had.
