You’re a true football fan who appreciates the rich history and culture of one of England’s most historic clubs, West Bromwich Albion.
Over the years, the club has produced some of the finest players to grace English football. From Tony ‘Bomber’ Brown to Bryan Robson. These athletes have permanently etched their names into sports lore and remain revered long after their playing careers ended.
In this article, we’ll delve into the top 10 greatest West Brom players of all time – West Brom Legends. Each player brings something unique – from blistering pace to clinical finishing and everything in between.
Whether you’re a lifelong Baggies supporter or just starting your journey as a fan. This list will inspire you and give you an insight into what made these players so special during their time at The Hawthorns.
So kick back, relax, & enjoy the ride as we look back at some of the greatest players in West Bromwich Albion FC history!
1. Tony “Bomber” Brown
You can’t talk about West Brom without mentioning Tony ‘Bomber’ Brown – he’s a legend. And it’ll be unusual to meet someone who hasn’t at least heard of him.
He played in more than 720 games for the team and scored an astonishing 279 goals throughout his time there. Brown was part of the team that won the FA Cup in 1968. Scoring two goals in the final against Everton.
Brown’s ferocity and pinpoint accuracy in shooting earned him the moniker “Bomber.” Also, he could play a variety of positions. Able to play as a midfielder or striker easily.
Brown holds numerous records at West Brom. Including being their all-time top scorer and having played the most league games for the club.
It would be impossible to emphasize his importance to West Brom’s success, making him one of the club’s all-time greats.
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2. Bryan Robson
As Robson graced the pitch, fans felt their hearts thumping in unison with each of his powerful strides. His commanding presence on the field was palpable, and it wasn’t long before he became a fan favorite.
Robson’s superb play in the middle of the field & his charismatic leadership won over supporters throughout his time with West Brom. Here are just 5 of the many reasons why Bryan Robson is a West Brom legend.
- He racked up over 200 games in his club’s history.
- He led the team to promotion to the First Division in 1976.
- Robson scored crucial goals in important matches, including two against Valencia in the UEFA Cup quarter-finals.
- He later became West Brom’s player-manager, leading them to an FA Cup semi-final appearance in 1982.
- Robson received an MBE for his contributions to the sports industry in recognition of his football achievements.
Robson’s legacy at West Brom lives on as he continues to inspire future generations of players and fans alike.
3. Laurie Cunningham
Laurie Cunningham’s electrifying speed and technical abilities on the field made him a standout player for West Brom in the late 1970s. He was one of the first black players to play for England.
And his success paved the way for other talented black footballers to follow in his footsteps.
His performances at West Brom earned him a move to Real Madrid. Where he became the first Englishman to play for the Spanish giants.
Cunningham’s impact at West Brom was immense, as he helped them reach the UEFA Cup quarter-finals 1979. He scored memorable goals at The Hawthorns, including a stunning solo effort against Manchester United where he dribbled past three defenders before slotting home.
His legacy lives on at West Brom, as fans still remember him as one of their greatest-ever players who brought excitement and flair to their team.
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4. Cyrille Regis
Cyrille Regis’ powerful runs down the wing and thunderous strikes on goal were a sight to behold for fans of Coventry City in the 1980s.
The English striker was part of the famous ‘Three Degrees’at West Brom, alongside Laurie Cunningham and Brendon Batson, who broke down racial barriers in British football during their time together.
It is impossible to exaggerate Regis’s significance to West Brom. There are many reasons why he is considered a team legend, but here are only four:
1) He scored 112 goals in 297 appearances for West Brom.
2) He was a crucial player in the team that reached the FA Cup semi-finals twice in three years.
3) Regis was honored as the PFA’s Young Player of the Year in his first year with West Brom.
4) He went on to represent England internationally, scoring four goals in five appearances.
5. Jeff Astle
Jeff Astle, known as ‘The King,’ was a fearless striker whose thunderous headers earned him a place in the hearts of West Brom fans. He spent a decade at the club between 1964 and 1974, scoring 174 goals in 361 appearances.
Most notably, he scored the winning goal for West Brom in the FA Cup final against Everton in 1968. This was the club’s first major trophy since 1931.
Astle’s physicality and aerial prowess made him a formidable opponent for any defender. Despite his imposing frame, he had a deft touch and excellent technique, which enabled him to score all types of goals.
However, he could rise above defenders and power home headers that cemented his status as one of West Brom’s greatest-ever players. Sadly, Astle passed away at 59 due to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
According to experts, his condition was likely brought on by years of heading past footballs.
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6. Ronnie Allen
As you walk through the historic halls of The Hawthorns, you can’t help but admire the skill and finesse of Ronnie Allen’s play. He was one of the most successful forwards in West Brom’s history. Scoring 234 goals during his career with the club.
Here are four reasons why he should be remembered alongside the greatest players in blue and white history:
- GoalscoringGoalscoring ability – Ronnie Allen had an incredible record when it came to finding the back of the net. He was a natural finisher who would often score from impossible angles.
- Versatility – Allen could play in multiple positions on the field, including inside forward, center-forward, and even as a midfielder.
- Winning mentality – During his time at West Brom. He helped lead them to two FA Cup victories and a league title win.
- Allen’s technical qualities included superb ball handling and dribbling.
Ronnie Allen’s goal-scoring prowess, adaptability, winning attitude, and technical wizardry have made him one of West Brom’s all-time greats. His legacy will live forever in the hearts of those lucky enough to see him play at The Hawthorns and appreciate everything he did to help the team win.
7. Derek Kevan
Regarding pure power and precision on the pitch, only some players can match Derek Kevan’s explosive style.
The striker was a key player for West Brom throughout the 1950s and early 1960s, scoring an impressive 173 goals in just over 300 appearances. He was notoriously difficult to tackle due to his superhuman strength and quickness.
Kevan’s performances helped lead West Brom to their first-ever FA Cup victory in 1954, where he scored two goals in the final against Preston North End. He was also instrumental in that season’s triumphant return to the First Division.
Kevan continued to impress with his goalscoring ability, earning him a call-up to the England national team, scoring five goals in nine appearances. He will be remembered fondly by West Brom fans forever as one of the club’s greatest players.
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8. John Wile
Nicknamed ‘The Beast,’ John Wile was a formidable defender for West Brom during the 1970s, known for his physicality and no-nonsense style of play. He joined the club in 1969 and quickly became one of their most important players.
Wile played over 500 games for West Brom, winning promotion back to the top flight twice and helping them reach the FA Cup semi-finals in 1978. Here are four reasons why John Wile is considered one of West Brom’s greatest-ever players:
- Unflinching: Wile was always willing to risk his life to help his team win. He routinely put his safety in danger by diving headfirst into tackles.
- Leadership: As captain of West Brom during their successful period in the early 70s.Wile led by example both on and off the pitch.
- Consistency: Throughout his career at West Brom, Wile maintained a high level of performance week in, week out.
- Passion: Above all else, John Wile loved playing for West Bromwich Albion. His commitment to the club never wavered, even when times were tough.
John Wile’s legacy at West Bromwich Albion will forever be remembered as a fierce competitor who gave everything he had for the team he loved.
A true legend of The Hawthorns stadium whose name will be sung by generations of fans who value hard work and dedication above anything else on a football pitch.
9. Len Millard
You’ll be surprised to know that Len Millard. A former West Brom player had a successful footballer and cricketer career.
He played for the club from 1945 to 1956, making over 300 appearances and scoring 15 goals. He was well-known for his adaptability on the field, as he could play everywhere from center back to outside left to inside forward.
In addition to his football career, Millard was also an accomplished cricketer. As an opening batsman, he played for Warwickshire County Cricket Club from 1947 to 1951. His talent on the cricket field earned him a place in the England squad for their tour of Australia in 1950-51.
Despite not being selected for any Test matches on the tour. He still scored centuries against Victoria and New South Wales.
Len Millard was a great footballer and an exceptional sportsman overall.
10. Chris Brunt
Did you know that Chris Brunt, the midfielder who played for West Brom for over a decade, was the heart and soul of the team? He joined the club in 2007 from Sheffield Wednesday and quickly made an impact with his technical skills and leadership qualities on and off the pitch.
Here are some reasons why he is considered one of the greatest West Brom players of all time:
- Brunt scored 51 goals in 419 appearances for West Brom. Making him one of the top scorers in the club’s history.
- He had a great vision and passing range, which allowed him to create many scoring opportunities for his teammates.
- Brunt was also known for his set-piece expertise, scoring numerous free-kicks and corners during his time at West Brom.
- His work rate and determination were exemplary, often tracking back to help out defensively while still contributing to attacking moves.
- Lastly, Brunt’s loyalty to West Brom must be noticed, as he stayed with them through relegations and promotions.
Chris Brunt was a versatile player who gave everything on the pitch. Fans will never forget his contribution to West Brom as he helped lead them through many memorable seasons.
