Wolverhampton Wanderers have a rich history of outstanding goalkeepers, with several legendary figures standing between the posts at Molineux. From title-winning heroes to cult icons, Wolves have been blessed with some of the finest shot-stoppers in English football history. Here, we count down the top five goalkeepers who have worn the old gold and black shirt.
The Five Best Wolves Goalkeepers In History
Honorable Mentions
Carl Ikeme and Mike Stowell played significant roles in Wolves’ history and deserve recognition. Ikeme, a product of the club’s academy, was a loyal and commanding presence in goal, particularly during the club’s Championship years. His career was tragically cut short in 2017 due to Leukemia, and his bravery in battling the illness made him an inspiration to all. Ikeme was a Championship winner in 08/09 and a League One winner in 13/14. Stowell, meanwhile, was Wolves’ first-choice goalkeeper for over a decade, making over 400 appearances for the club and providing consistency during the club’s push for Premier League promotion in the 1990s and being a Division 3 winner in 88/89. While they may not have made the top five, their contributions to the club are undeniable, and they remain beloved figures among Wolves supporters.
5. Matt Murray (1998-2008)
Unfortunately, injuries hampered Matt Murray’s Wolves career, but his talent was undeniable. A product of the club’s academy, he was a commanding presence in goal, possessing excellent shot-stopping ability and remarkable reflexes for a man of his stature.
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Murray’s finest moment came in the 2002-03 season when he played a key role in Wolves’ promotion to the Premier League. he was instrumental in the play-off final against Sheffield United, saving a penalty and earning the Man of the Match award in the 3-0 victory at the Millennium Stadium. Despite his potential, persistent injuries forced him to retire early, but his impact for the club remains significant.
4. Rui Patrício (2018-2021)
Rui Patrício arrived at Wolves in 2018 as one of the club’s most high-profile signings, fresh from winning Euro 2016 with Portugal. His presence signaled Wolves’ ambitions under Nuno Espírito Santo, and he quickly established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League. Patrício was a key figure in Wolves’ return to European football, helping the club secure back-to-back seventh place finishes in the Premier League and a Europa League quarter-final run. His shot-stopping ability, composure under pressure, and leadership made him a fan favourite. Though he left for Roma in 2021, he played a crucial role in Wolves’ modern resurgence.
3. Phil Parkes (1964-1978)
Phil Parkes was Wolves’ first-choice goalkeeper for over a decade, making 382 appearances for the club and still holding the record for most consecutive appearances at 127. He was known for his consistency, bravery, and agility, helping Wolves establish themselves in the top flight during the late 1960s and 1970s.
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Parkes helped Wolves win the 1974 League Cup but missed the final due to a broken ankle. He was also part of the team that reached the 1972 UEFA Cup Final, saving a penalty in each leg of the semi-final proving his quality on the European stage. Parkes’ long service and loyalty to the club make him one of Wolves’ greatest goalkeepers.
2. Malcolm Finlayson (1956-1964)
Scottish goalkeeper Malcolm Finlayson was a vital part of Wolves’ golden era under Stan Cullis. He played a key role in Wolves Back to Back First Division titles in 1957/58 and 1958/59 as well as lifting the 1960 FA Cup, where he kept a clean sheet as Wolves ran out 3-0 winners over Blackburn Rovers.
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Known for his bravery, sharp reflexes and command of his area, Finlayson was one of the best goalkeepers of his generation. His performances in domestic and European competition solidified his reputation, particularly in Wolves’ 1959/60 European cup campaign, where he helped the club reach the quarter finals: a true winner and a pillar of Wolves’ most successful period.
1. Bert Williams (1945-1959)
Topping the list is Bert Williams, arguably Wolves’ greatest goalkeeper. Nicknamed ‘The Cat’ for his lightning-fast reflexes and agility, Williams was a key part of Wolves’ first-ever league title-winning side in 1953/54. A true pioneer of goalkeeping, Williams was known for his incredible shot-stopping ability and remarkable athleticism. Williams also earned 24 caps for England, representing his country at the 1950 World Cup.
One of his most famous performances came in Wolves’ legendary 3-2 victory over Honvéd in 1954, a match that helped cement the club’s reputation as one of Europe’s best sides at the time and the birth of European football. His influence at Molinuex is immeasurable: he set the standard for goalkeeping excellence at Molineux and remains one of the most respected figures in the club’s history. His influence and achievements make him the undisputed No. 1 on this list.
Wolves have been blessed with incredible goalkeepers, from title winning heroes like Williams and Finlayson to modern stars like Patrício. Each of these five goalkeepers left a lasting impact on the club and played a crucial role in Wolves’ rich history. Their performances and achievements will be remembered by Wolves fans for generations to come.