By Started this morning with coffee at my desk, wondering which Arsenal keepers really deserve that legend tag. Felt like those old-timers at the pub arguing over who was truly top class. Wanted a solid list, not just names tossed around.
The Deep Dive Into Archives
Pulled up articles and highlight reels first. YouTube was buzzing, mate. Scrolled through saves, howlers, cup finals. Remembered my grandad ranting about some keeper before my time. Found grainy footage of Bob Wilson – dude played in the 70s! Felt mad respect seeing him dive full stretch with those old leather gloves.
Stats came next. Win percentages, clean sheets. Opened three tabs just comparing numbers. Felt overwhelming. Went down a rabbit hole checking European nights performance. Almost gave myself a headache.
Narrowing Down The Real Deals
Had to set rules. No one-season wonders, needed real longevity. Big performances in trophies counted extra. Kept replaying Pat Jennings’ FA Cup saves from ’79. His hands looked like shovels! Debated whether David Seaman’s ponytail era should count. Course it should, you mug – that save against Sheffield United in the FA Cup semi? Unreal.
- Bob Wilson: Foundational. Proper stalwart with the Double win. Built the standard.
- Pat Jennings: That calmness! Signed from Spurs but became ours. Still iconic.
- John Lukic: Double duty over two stints. Kept the net tight during boring Arsenal era. Unsung hero.
- David Seaman: The ponytail! That reflexes! Saved bacon so many times. Stone cold legend.
- Jens Lehmann: Invincibles season! Mad eyes and saves. Never boring.
Argued with myself over Almunia. Nah. Good shotstopper sometimes, but legend? Not a chance. Lukic over him any day. Checo almost made it for longevity, but just fell short.
Wrapping It Up Proper
Double-checked with old match reports. Asked my cousin whose dad watched Wilson live. Got a thumbs up. Put the final five in order and wrote quick blurbs about each. Kept thinking – imagine these five in goal across different eras. What a wall that would be! Posted it with a big exhale. Job done.