Ian Wright, once a clinical goal-scoring machine for Arsenal, is one of the most beloved UK football pundits right now. The ex-England striker gives insightful opinions while displaying his unique personality. Never afraid to give his real thoughts, Wright picked the greatest trio in Premier League history.
The English top-flight has had too many world-class players to count since its rebranding in 1992. Sir Alex Ferguson's 13-time Premier League champions Manchester United had several teams full of superstars with unending talent.
That's before even considering Jose Mourinho's formidable Chelsea team, Arsene Wenger's Invincibles or Pep Guardiola's record-breaking Citizens. The very best teams have always been littered with the finest talent the beautiful game has to offer. However, picking out the three best to ever grace the English division is simple in the eyes of Wright, who named his selections in an interview with ESPN.
Alan Shearer
Alan Shearer
The first name out of the retired striker's mouth was, of course, Alan Shearer. As a goalscorer himself, there was never any doubt Wright would pick the division's highest-ever scorer.
Shearer would only pick up one league title with Blackburn Rovers in 1995, but his ever-lasting legacy comes in the form of 260 goals. His incredible eye for goal and instinctive finishing ability set the Newcastle United legend apart from any other centre-forward to have appeared in the league.
Thierry Henry
Thierry Henry Arsenal
Thierry Henry Arsenal
Thierry Henry, Arsenal's greatest-ever player, was always going to be included in Wright's trio. Quick, clinical, and elegant on the football pitch, the Frenchman is regarded by many as the finest-ever player to grace the Premier League.
He was immense for Wenger's north Londoners after completing a move from Juventus in 1999. Henry was at the peak of his powers in 2003 and 2004, as he narrowly missed out on the Ballon d'Or and then spearheaded the Gunners to become the only ever unbeaten team in a Premier League season.
Eric Cantona
Cantona in 1996 for Manchester Utd
While Shearer and Henry are expected names when it comes to the greatest to ever play in the Premier League. Someone who is sometimes forgotten about is Man Utd icon Eric Cantona.
Wright certainly didn't forget about the title-winning captain, who was signed from Leeds United in 1992 and immediately turned Fergie's Red Devils into a dominant force in English football. As charismatic as he was talented, Cantona never disappointed fans with his flamboyant and effective displays. He also wasn't shy of getting involved in controversies. One thing's for sure, there'll never be another 'King Eric'.
Statistics in this article are courtesy of Transfermarkt. Correct as of 31-10-25.