Nketiah

From Nketiah to Legends: Crystal Palace's No. 9s Have a Story to Tell!

Get ready for Eddie Nketiah's debut with Crystal Palace as we dive into the legacy of the club's No. 9s. What do they all have in common?

As Eddie Nketiah prepares to pull on the iconic No. 9 shirt for Crystal Palace, fans are buzzing with anticipation. This is not just any number; it holds a rich history within the walls of Selhurst Park. From tireless goal poachers to skillful playmakers, the No. 9 jersey has been donned by some of the most memorable strikers in the club's history. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and celebrate five of the greatest centre-forwards that graced the pitch wearing the famous number.

First up, we have the legendary Clive Allen, known for his sharpshooting abilities and clinical finishing. Allen, who played for the Eagles in the late 1980s, was a constant threat around the goal, placing him firmly in the hearts of the Palace faithful. His time at the club was marked by his incredible knack for finding the back of the net, culminating in a remarkable 49 goals in just 108 appearances. Talk about making an impact! Allen’s legacy still resonates, making him a prime candidate to be remembered as one of the finest to wear the No. 9.

Next in line is Mark Bright, another No. 9 who left an indelible mark on the club. Sporting the jersey throughout the late 1980s and early ‘90s, Bright was instrumental in the club's rise, not just as a goal-scorer but also as a passionate player who embodied the spirit of Crystal Palace. His memorable partnership with the likes of Geoff Thomas helped lead Palace to their first-ever FA Cup final in 1990, where they narrowly lost to Manchester United. Bright's contributions on and off the pitch have made him a true club legend.

Completing our list is Andy Johnson, fondly known to fans as ‘AJ’. Johnson’s high-octane playing style and unwavering determination saw him net 72 goals over his career at Palace. He was instrumental during their time in the Premier League, and his energetic celebrations after scoring are etched in memory for many Palace fans. With his signature style, Johnson inspired a new generation of strikers at the club, proving that the No. 9 is about more than just goals—it's about heart and determination.

As we get closer to Nketiah's debut, it's worth acknowledging how this number weaves through the fabric of Crystal Palace. Did you know that in the club's history, only 19 players have had the honor of wearing the iconic No. 9 throughout its long history? The legacy behind this number is as rich as the club's history itself. It's not just about being a forward; it's about becoming part of a family that prides itself on legacy, passion, and determination.