peter schmeichel ruben amorim
Peter Schmeichel is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history. He was an imposing presence between the sticks for Manchester United and played a key role in their remarkable Premier League dominance during the 1990s. The Dane cut an intimidating figure for the Red Devils, and there weren't many strikers who relished coming up against him during his time at Old Trafford.
That isn't to say there weren't players who managed to leave a lasting impression on Schmeichel, however, and he once revealed the best footballer he had ever faced. Surprisingly, he selected a Liverpool icon.
Given that the Dane spent most of his career representing one of the Reds' biggest rivals, few would have expected him to single out one of Anfield's greatest legends for praise.
Schmeichel Named Robbie Fowler His Greatest Opponent
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Given the rivalry between the two clubs, it's unusual to hear someone connected with United compliment a Liverpool player, past or present. Yet that's precisely what Schmeichel did when asked to identify his toughest ever opponent, choosing former striker Robbie Fowler.
During an appearance on Soccer AM, the former goalkeeper was asked to name the opponent who had caused him the most problems throughout his career, and he opted for the Englishman.
Fowler established himself as a Liverpool star after progressing through the ranks at Anfield. Across two spells with the club, he made 369 appearances and scored 183 goals.
Liverpool wasn't the only side he played for, though, as the former striker also represented Manchester City, Blackburn Rovers and Cardiff during a 29-year career. He was a prolific goalscorer as well, finding the net 162 times in the Premier League.
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Robbie Fowler's Career
Club
Liverpool
Manchester City
Leeds United
Perth Glory
Northern Fury FC
Cardiff City
Blackburn Rovers
Muangthong United
He ranks among the competition's all-time leading scorers, and although he never won the league title, he was still an outstanding player who clearly left an impression on the United legend. That is significant praise when you consider just how exceptional Schmeichel was himself.
The former goalkeeper made 398 appearances for the Red Devils during an eight-year spell at Old Trafford, winning five league titles in that period along with a Champions League trophy. He is widely considered the greatest goalkeeper in the club's history, and it's easy to see why. All things considered, Fowler receiving such praise is quite remarkable.
All statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt and accurate as of 14-09-26.