PALEMBANG, SUMATERAEKSPRES.ID - The English Premier League, although relatively new compared to Spain's La Liga, Germany's Bundesliga, and Italy's Serie A, has proven itself as a competitive professional league since its official inception in 1992.

Over the past 31 seasons, the league has witnessed the rise of numerous exceptional players. This assessment is based on their significant contributions to their respective clubs and their ability to lead their teams to Premier League glory.

Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard didn't make it into the top 10 best players in the Premier League. Despite successfully guiding The Reds to two UEFA Champions League titles, Gerrard never clinched the Premier League title for Liverpool.

A similar fate befell Harry Kane, the captain of the English national team. Although an outstanding player and a goal-hungry striker, Kane has yet to deliver a championship trophy to his beloved Tottenham Hotspur.

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Here is the list of the top 10 Premier League players of all time, based on their contributions and achievements for their clubs:

10. Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)

The only defender on the list, Virgil van Dijk, from the Netherlands, broke into the top 10 dominated by strikers and midfielders. His significant contributions played a vital role in Liverpool's success over the past five years.

In the 2019-2020 season, Van Dijk led Liverpool to win the UEFA Champions League and was named the Ballon d'Or winner in the same year. His passing accuracy, intelligence, and leadership qualities on the field make him a formidable opponent.

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9. Eric Cantona (Manchester United)

Manchester United legend Eric Cantona rightfully earns his place among the top 10 players. With charisma, character, and brilliance on the field, Cantona enchanted United fans.

Cantona successfully brought United back to glory after a 25-year championship drought.

Transferred from Leeds United, where he led them to victory and promotion to the Premier League, Cantona's impact during his five seasons with the Red Devils was transformative.

8. Alan Shearer (Blackburn Rovers)

Alan Shearer stands as one of the legendary players in the Premier League. He still holds the record for the most goals scored with 260.

This record remains unmatched, with Harry Kane trailing by 47 goals.

Joining Blackburn Rovers in 1992 after starting his career at Southampton, Shearer helped Blackburn secure the Premier League title in 1995. Shearer retired from professional football in 2006 while playing for Newcastle United.

7. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

Liverpool's success owes much to Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian striker played a pivotal role in Liverpool's Premier League triumph in the 2019-2020 season.

Salah is the first player to achieve three Premier League Golden Boots and has been named the Premier League Player of the Season twice.

His peak came with Liverpool winning the UEFA Champions League in the 2020-2021 season, solidifying Salah as one of the most entertaining players in the Premier League.

6. Ryan Giggs (Manchester United)

Ryan Giggs stands as the most successful player in Manchester United's history. The Welsh player clinched the Premier League title 13 times under the guidance of legendary coach Sir Alex Ferguson.

Giggs, known for his exceptional passing abilities with 146 assists in his career, combined great talent with high discipline. He retired from professional football at the age of 40, having dedicated his entire football career to Manchester United.

5. Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)