The 20 Best Chelsea Players Of All Time

Best Chelsea Players Of All Time: Since its start in 1905, the club has become an important part of English football, with many skilled players wearing their blue jerseys. The club made significant progress in the 2000s, but its history is quite fascinating. It has a bunch of amazing legends who were part of the team and left their mark.

The interesting thing about this London team is that they’ve excelled not only internationally but also in local competitions. Though there’s been a recent change in ownership, Chelsea is still a strong team in the Premier League.

With 32 titles to their name, the Blues are among the top clubs in England and Europe. They belong to the special group of teams that have consistently played well over the years, thanks to a long list of talented players.

Players at Chelsea have been known for their elegance, leadership, power, talent, and technique. These are the qualities used to describe the footballers who became legends for Chelsea fans due to their performances at Stamford Bridge.

Best Chelsea Players Of All Time

Here, we’re going to rank the best Chelsea players ever based on their overall impact and success at the club. These players have made a lasting impression at Stamford Bridge and will always be remembered as Chelsea legends.

20. Peter Osgood

  • Full Name: Peter Leslie Osgood
  • Date of Birth: 20 February 1947
  • Height: 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
  • Position(s): Striker

Peter Osgood holds the 20th spot on our list of the greatest Chelsea players in history. If you’re a fan of the club, you’re probably familiar with this name. Osgood is truly one of the iconic figures of Chelsea.

He’s one of the rare players who has a statue of himself at a stadium. His excellence on the field, his skill, and his gracefulness warranted a statue at Stamford Bridge as a tribute to one of the finest footballers to ever grace that turf.

Born in 1947 in Windsor, Osgood quickly gained fame for his stylish and strong playing style as a striker. He contributed to many of Chelsea’s victories, including the 1971 Cup Winners’ Cup, the 1970 FA Cup, the 1965 English League Cup, and more throughout his years at Chelsea. Peter played in a total of 380 matches and scored 138 goals.

Known for his flamboyant and charismatic playing, his fans dubbed him “The King of Stamford Bridge.” Today, Peter Osgood’s legacy remains strong not only within Chelsea but also in the hearts of all football enthusiasts who witnessed the remarkable career of this exceptional player.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

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1964–1974Chelsea380138

Honours With Chelsea:

  • FA Cup: 1970
  • European Cup Winners’ Cup: 1970–71

19. Bobby Tambling

  • Full Name: Robert Victor Tambling
  • Date of Birth: 18 September 1941 (age 81)
  • Position(s): Striker

He started playing for Chelsea when he was only 17 years old and stayed there for 11 years. He was a famous English forward who came from Chelsea’s youth teams and was the highest goal scorer for the club for 40 years.

He played an important role in helping Chelsea win their first championship: the League Cup in 1965. While he was at Chelsea, he played in 370 matches and scored 202 goals.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

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1959–1970Chelsea370202

Honours With Chelsea:

  • Football League Cup: 1964–65

18. Joe Cole

  • Full Name: Joseph John Cole
  • Date of Birth: 8 November 1981
  • Height: 5 ft 9 in (1.75 m)
  • Position(s): Attacking midfielder, winger

Joe Cole is thought of as one of the greatest Chelsea players ever. He was a midfielder who played for Chelsea from 2003 to 2010, and then again in 2013 to 2014. While he was at Chelsea, he earned three Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and one Football League Cup.

He was famous for his clever style of play and his skill in scoring goals from the midfield position. Along with his successes at the club level, Cole also played for the England national team in the World Cup and European Championship.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

CareerTeamAppGoals
2003–2010Chelsea183(27)

Honours With Chelsea:

  • Premier League: 2004–05, 2005–06, 2009–10
  • FA Cup: 2006–07, 2009–10
  • Football League Cup: 2004–05
  • FA Community Shield: 2005
  • UEFA Champions League runner-up: 2007–08

17. Cesc Fàbregas

  • Full Name: Francesc Fàbregas Soler
  • Date of Birth: 4 May 1987
  • Height: 1.79 m (5 ft 10 in)
  • Position(s): Central midfielder

Cesc Fàbregas is another player who is thought of very highly as one of the best Chelsea players ever. He joined Chelsea in 2014 after doing well at Arsenal, and he quickly became an important player for the club. He’s a smart midfielder known for his great passing and his ability to see and plan plays on the field.

While he was at Chelsea, Fàbregas won the Premier League, the FA Cup, and the Football League Cup. He also played a big part in helping Chelsea make it to the final of the UEFA Europa League in 2019, and they ended up winning.

Fàbregas is still playing for Chelsea and is widely seen as one of the finest midfielders in the Premier League.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

CareerTeamAppGoals
2014–2019Chelsea138(15)

Honours With Chelsea:

  • Premier League: 2014–15, 2016–17
  • FA Cup: 2017–18; runner-up: 2016–17
  • Football League Cup: 2014–15
  • UEFA Europa League: 2018–19

16. Ron Harris

  • Full Name: Ronald Edward Harris
  • Date of Birth: 13 November 1944 (age 78)
  • Height: 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m)
  • Position(s): Defender

Ron Harris holds the 16th spot on our list of the best Chelsea players ever. He’s another English player who is a true legend of the club. He played as a central defender, and he got the nickname “Chopper” because he was really tough and determined on the field. He didn’t hold back and used impressive skills to stop opponents, which made him quite famous.

Chopper is the player who has worn the Chelsea jersey the most times, playing in 795 matches and scoring 14 goals. He played a big role for Chelsea in achieving important victories like the Cup Winners’ Cup in 1971, the FA Cup in 1967 and 1970, and the English League Cup in 1965 and 1972.

In 2011, Ron Harris was given a special award by the club to recognize his vital contributions in many matches. His two decades with the club have made him someone who’s respected (and maybe a bit feared!) in the world of football. He’s a true legend for Chelsea. Notably, he can proudly say that he stayed loyal to his original club for an impressive 19 seasons in a row!

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

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1962–1980Chelsea79514

Honours With Chelsea:

  • European Cup Winners’ Cup: 1970–71

15. Mason Mount

  • Full Name: Mason Tony Mount
  • Date of Birth: 10 January 1999
  • Height: 5 ft 11 in (1.81 m)
  • Position(s): Attacking midfielder, central midfielder

Mason Mount is a young and skillful player who many believe will have a great future in soccer. He’s been really important for Chelsea lately and has already become one of the top players in the Premier League.

Mount is a flexible midfielder known for his energy, his technical skills, and his ability to score goals.

He’s been part of Chelsea’s victories in the Premier League, the FA Cup, and the Football League Cup. Plus, he’s played a crucial role in the club’s successes in European competitions. Even though he’s still early in his career, Mount has already demonstrated that he could become one of the greatest Chelsea players ever.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

CareerTeamAppGoals
2017–Chelsea124(27)

Honours With Chelsea:

  • UEFA Champions League: 2020–21
  • UEFA Super Cup: 2021
  • FIFA Club World Cup: 2021
  • FA Cup runner-up: 2019–20,2020–21, 2021–22
  • EFL Cup runner-up: 2021–22

14. Marcel Desailly

  • Full Name: Marcel Desailly
  • Date of Birth: 7 September 1968
  • Height: 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in)
  • Position(s): Centre-back, defensive midfielder

The French defender is a legendary figure in his country, especially because he made a significant impact by winning the 1998 World Cup. However, his time at Chelsea was not as long as some others on this list.

Even so, he played in 222 matches for the club and achieved victories including 1 FA Cup, 1 Community Shield, and 1 European Super Cup.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

CareerTeamAppGoals
1998–2004Chelsea222(6)

Honours With Chelsea:

  • FA Cup: 1999–2000
  • FA Charity Shield: 2000
  • UEFA Super Cup: 1998

13. Ray Wilkins

  • Full Name: Raymond Colin Wilkins
  • Date of Birth: 14 September 1956
  • Height: 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m)
  • Position(s): Midfielder

Ray Wilkins takes the 13th spot in our list of the best Chelsea players ever. This English footballer was born in Hillingdon and is the son of a former professional footballer. It’s no surprise that he followed in his father’s footsteps and his football skills were quickly recognized.

He joined Chelsea, where he started his career and training. While he went on to play for other famous clubs like Manchester United, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, Rangers, Queens Park Rangers, and more, his time with Chelsea is significant.

As a skilled and effective midfielder, Ray Wilkins played a big role in the Chelsea Club’s history. Some notable highlights from his career include being the Runner-up of England’s Second Division in 1997, and he was voted Chelsea Club’s Player of the Year in 1976 and 1977. Throughout his career, his talent as a midfielder shone through: he was a finalist in the English League Cup in 1983, won the Scottish League Cup in 1987, and secured Scottish championships in 1989 and 1990. In total, he represented his country in 84 matches and scored 3 goals.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

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1973–1979Chelsea179(30)

12. Branislav Ivanović

  • Date of Birth: 22 February 1984
  • Height: 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in)
  • Position(s): Defender

During Chelsea’s golden era, the Serbian player was a crucial component that filled various gaps in the team. He wasn’t just skilled in attacking and consistently performing well, he also had the versatility to step in as a central defender when necessary.

In his time with the team, the defender participated in 377 matches wearing the ‘Blues’ jersey. His contributions led to victories including 3 FA Cups, 1 League Cup, 3 Premier League titles, 1 Europa League, and 1 Champions League.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

CareerTeamAppGoals
2008–2017Chelsea37734

Honours With Chelsea:

  • Premier League: 2009–10, 2014–15, 2016–17
  • FA Cup: 2008–09,2009–10, 2011–12
  • Football League Cup: 2014–15
  • FA Community Shield: 2009
  • UEFA Champions League: 2011–12
  • UEFA Europa League: 2012–13
  • FIFA Club World Cup: runner-up: 2012

11. César Azpilicueta

  • Full Name: César Azpilicueta Tanco
  • Date of Birth: 28 August 1989
  • Height: 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in)
  • Position(s): Defender

The Spanish defender’s journey is unique as he covered every defensive position during his entire time at Chelsea. This remarkable versatility has earned him a special status within the club, as he has led the team as captain each season.

Throughout his career at Chelsea, Azpilicueta has participated in 497 matches and clinched victories including 2 Premier League titles, 1 League Cup, 1 FA Cup, 2 Europa Leagues, and 1 Champions League.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

CareerTeamAppGoals
2012–Chelsea497(17)

Honours With Chelsea:

  • Premier League: 2014–15, 2016–17
  • FA Cup: 2017–18, 2019–20, 2020–21, 2021–22
  • Football League Cup/EFL Cup: 2014–15, 2021–22
  • UEFA Champions League: 2020–21
  • UEFA Europa League: 2012–13, 2018–19
  • UEFA Super Cup: 2021
  • FIFA Club World Cup: 2021; runner-up: 2012

10. N’Golo Kanté

  • Full Name: N’Golo Kanté
  • Date of Birth: 29 March 1991
  • Height: 1.71 m (5 ft 7 in)
  • Position(s): Defensive midfielder

N’Golo Kanté is a skilled French footballer who has played a vital role for Chelsea since he joined the team in 2016. He’s famous for his incredible work ethic, his defensive abilities, and his impressive speed in covering the field.

Kanté’s contributions have led Chelsea to win many significant trophies, including the Premier League, the FA Cup, and the UEFA Europa League.

He’s been honored as the Premier League Player of the Season two times and has been a part of the PFA Team of the Year multiple times. Kanté is still an active player for Chelsea and is widely recognized as one of the finest players in the club’s history.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

CareerTeamAppGoals
2016–Chelsea269(13)

Honours With Chelsea:

  • Premier League: 2016–17
  • FA Cup: 2017–18; runner-up: 2016–17, 2019–20, 2020–21, 2021–22
  • UEFA Champions League: 2020–21
  • UEFA Europa League: 2018–19
  • UEFA Super Cup: 2021
  • FIFA Club World Cup: 2021
  • EFL Cup runner-up: 2018–19, 2021–22

9. Claude Makélélé

  • Full Name: Claude Makélélé Sinda
  • Date of Birth: 18 February 1973
  • Height: 1.74 m (5 ft 9 in)
  • Position(s): Defensive midfielder

Claude Makélélé was born in Kinshasa, which is now part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly known as Zaire). He had a successful career playing for various European clubs, including FC Nantes, Olympique de Marseille, Real Madrid, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain, where he retired from professional football.

His contributions included winning the English Premier League in 2005 and 2006, securing the FA Cup in 2007, achieving victory in the English League Cup in 2005 and 2007, and making it to the final of the 2008 Champions League.

Makélélé’s playing style attracted attention and had a significant impact on modern football, given his remarkable effectiveness. Many defensive midfielders have drawn inspiration from Makélélé’s techniques, striving to replicate his achievements on the field.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

CareerTeamAppGoals
2003–2008Chelsea144(2)

Honours With Chelsea:

  • Premier League: 2004–05, 2005–06
  • FA Cup: 2006–07
  • Football League Cup: 2004–05, 2006–07
  • FA Community Shield: 2005
  • UEFA Champions League runner-up: 2007–08

8. Michael Essien

  • Full Name: Michael Kojo Essien
  • Date of Birth: 3 December 1982
  • Height: 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in)
  • Position(s): Midfielder

The Ghanaian midfielder was known for his versatility in the midfield, earning him the nickname ‘Buffalo’. His initial time at Chelsea was truly remarkable, playing 249 matches and becoming a prominent figure in the Premier League.

Yet, he struggled to maintain that level throughout the rest of his career. Nevertheless, he achieved an impressive record: winning 2 Premier League titles, 4 FA Cups, 1 League Cup, 1 Community Shield, and 1 Champions League.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

CareerTeamAppGoals
2005–2014Chelsea249(25)

Honours With Chelsea:

  • Premier League: 2005–06, 2009–10
  • FA Cup: 2006–07, 2008–09, 2009–10, 2011–12
  • Football League Cup: 2006–07
  • FA Community Shield: 2009
  • UEFA Champions League: 2011–12; runner-up: 2007–08

7. Ashley Cole

  • Full Name: Ashley Cole
  • Date of Birth: 20 December 1980
  • Height: 5 ft 9 in (1.76 m)
  • Position(s): Left-back

Ashley Cole was undoubtedly one of the most formidable and challenging left-backs to face in the entire history of football. His time at Chelsea showcased his absolute best during a period of glory for the club. His outstanding displays led to discussions about whether he was the finest player in the world in his position.

Cole devoted eight years to defending Chelsea’s honor. He participated in 338 matches and netted seven goals. Moreover, the English defender secured an impressive tally of 16 titles with the club: 3 Premier League championships, 7 FA Cups, 3 Community Shields, 1 League Cup, 1 Champions League, and 1 Europa League.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

CareerTeamAppGoals
2006–2014Chelsea338(7)

Honours With Chelsea:

  • Premier League: 2009–10
  • FA Cup: 2006–07, 2008–09, 2009–10, 2011–12
  • Football League Cup: 2006–07
  • FA Community Shield: 2009
  • UEFA Champions League: 2011–12
  • UEFA Europa League: 2012–13

6. Gianfranco Zola

  • Full Name: Gianfranco Zola
  • Date of Birth: 5 July 1966
  • Height: 1.68 m (5 ft 6 in)
  • Position(s): Forward

We’ve reached the final selection, our top 20 best players in Chelsea history, and 6th place stands Gianfranco Zola. As you might expect, this player hails from Italy, a nation deeply passionate about football. Born in 1966 in Sardinia, Zola began his football journey in Italy before becoming an international player.

He joined Chelsea in 1996 and quickly captured the hearts of fans with his graceful playing style. This skilled forward was celebrated for his ability to make crucial plays and left an indelible mark on both the club and its supporters.

Looking at his achievements, he won the Cup Winners’ Cup in 1998, secured the FA Cup in 1997 and 2000, claimed the English League Cup in 1998, and win in the 2000 Community Shield. Throughout his Chelsea career, he played 312 matches and scored 91 goals. His impact was so significant that he was named the club’s greatest player and his jersey number (25) was retired permanently. This is how the Italian player greatly contributed to the prestige of the English club!

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

CareerTeamAppGoals
1996–2003Chelsea31291

Honours With Chelsea:

  • FA Cup: 1996–97, 1999–2000
  • Football League Cup: 1997–98
  • FA Charity Shield: 2000
  • UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup: 1997–98
  • UEFA Super Cup: 1998

5. John Terry

  • Full Name: John George Terry
  • Date of Birth: 7 December 1980
  • Height: 6 ft 2 in (1.87 m)
  • Position(s): Centre-back

Among the standout Chelsea players of all time, one cannot overlook John Terry. This English player stands as one of the most prominent defenders of his era and of the Chelsea club itself. His journey began with the club at the young age of 14, and his rapid progress was a testament to his natural talent. Soon, he was bestowed with the honor of being the team’s captain. Such was his impact that fans affectionately named him “Captain, Leader, Legend” – a truly telling title!

His remarkable accomplishments speak volumes: he won the Champions League in 2012, reached the Champions League final in 2008, emerged victorious in the Europa League in 2013, clinched the English Premier League title in 2005, 2006, 2010, 2015, and 2017, secured the English League Cup in 2005, 2007, and 2015, and claimed the Community Shield in 2005 and 2009. Alongside these team successes, John Terry’s achievements have further contributed to his legendary status.

Beyond his awards, John Terry was notable for his daring and sometimes tumultuous temperament; controversies, altercations, yellow and red cards… In essence, he was a true character! Despite certain divisive aspects of his persona, John Terry stands as the third most capped player in Chelsea’s history and remains an iconic figure for the club.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

CareerTeamAppGoals
1998–2017Chelsea717(67)

Honours With Chelsea:

  • Premier League: 2004–05, 2005–06, 2009–10, 2014–15, 2016–17
  • FA Cup: 1999–2000, 2006–07, 2008–09, 2009–10, 2011–12; runner-up: 2001–02, 2016–17
  • Football League Cup: 2004–05, 2006–07, 2014–15; runner-up: 2007–08
  • FA Community Shield: 2005, 2009
  • UEFA Champions League: 2011–12; runner-up: 2007–08
  • UEFA Europa League: 2012–13

4. Eden Hazard

  • Full Name: Eden Michael Walter Hazard
  • Date of Birth: 7 January 1991
  • Height: 1.75 m (5 ft 9 in)
  • Position(s): Winger, attacking midfielder

Eden Hazard is one of the best Chelsea Players Of All Time. Born in 1991, he comes from a football-loving family, as both of his parents were professional players. His mother was a striker in the Belgian D1 league. Eden quickly emerged as a standout player and is now recognized as one of the finest talents of his generation. Primarily a winger, he’s versatile enough to also take on the roles of striker or playmaker.

Starting his career in Belgium, he later moved to France, specifically LOSC Lille, where his skills caught the eye. In 2012, he transferred to Chelsea, becoming the record-breaking transfer in Belgian football history at 40 million euros.

He played numerous crucial matches with the English club, winning the Premier League titles in 2015 and 2017, securing the FA Cup in 2018, and achieving success in the League Cup in 2015. His accomplishments are crowned by awards such as Player of the Year for the 2014-2015 season. Given all these factors, Eden Hazard’s place in our ranking of the greatest Chelsea players is more than well-deserved.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

CareerTeamAppGoals
2012–2019Chelsea352110

Honours With Chelsea:

  • Premier League: 2014–15, 2016–17
  • FA Cup: 2017–18; runner-up: 2016–17
  • Football League/EFL Cup: 2014–15; runner-up: 2018–19
  • UEFA Europa League: 2012–13, 2018–19

3. Petr Čech

  • Born: 20 May 1982
  • Height: 1.96 m (6 ft 5 in)

Petr Cech secures the 3rd spot in our ranking of the greatest Chelsea players. He’s a Czech international footballer born in 1982, known for his role as a goalkeeper. His exceptional reflexes and his calmness, even in high-pressure situations, make him a true legend in his position.

Cech began his football journey in his hometown, Plzen, before making his way to Prague’s Sparta club, one of the Czech Republic’s major teams. His skill in guarding the goal against relentless attacks attracted the attention of numerous European clubs, ultimately leading him to Chelsea. This step proved pivotal in his career, as he spent 11 seasons with the English club and claimed numerous titles.

Being the runner-up in the English Premier League in 2007, 2008, and 2011, reaching the Champions League final in 2008, being a finalist in the European Super Cup in 2012 and 2013, winning the English League Cup in 2005, 2007, and 2015, and emerging victorious in the Europa League in 2013—all these accomplishments solidify Cech’s status as a legendary figure for the club. His contributions are deeply admired not just in his home country but also by the various clubs he’s been associated with.

Honours With Chelsea:

  • Premier League: 2004–05, 2005–06, 2009–10, 2014–15
  • FA Cup: 2006–07, 2008–09, 2009–10, 2011–12
  • Football League Cup: 2004–05, 2006–07, 2014–15; runner-up: 2007–08
  • FA Community Shield: 2005, 2009
  • UEFA Champions League: 2011–12; runner-up: 2007–08
  • UEFA Europa League: 2012–13
  • FIFA Club World Cup runner-up: 2012

2. Frank Lampard

  • Full Name: Frank James Lampard
  • Date of Birth: 20 June 1978
  • Height: 6 ft 0 in (1.84 m)
  • Position(s): Midfielder

Many might have thought that the second-best player in Chelsea’s history would be a French person. But surprisingly, it’s not the case. The second spot on the list of the greatest Chelsea players goes to an Englishman. His name is Frank James Lampard, born in 1978 in Romford. He was a strong midfielder and had an amazing career with Chelsea.

Frank Lampard’s journey with Chelsea began in 2001. He became an important part of the team quickly. People were impressed by his ability to score goals, make accurate passes, and shoot the ball well. Fans nicknamed him “Super Frank” because he scored incredible goals even from the middle of the field. He stayed with the club for 13 years, playing 650 games and scoring 211 goals.

His achievements show how amazing he was: three league titles, four FA Cup wins, two League Cup wins, a Champions League victory, and a Europa League victory. So, Super Frank isn’t just a legend at Chelsea, but in the whole football world.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

CareerTeamAppGoals
2001–2014Chelsea650211

Honours With Chelsea:

  • Premier League: 2004–05, 2005–06, 2009–10
  • FA Cup: 2006–07, 2008–09, 2009–10, 2011–12
  • Football League Cup: 2004–05, 2006–07
  • FA Community Shield: 2005, 2009
  • UEFA Champions League: 2011–12
  • UEFA Europa League: 2012–13

1. Didier Drogba

  • Full Name: Didier Yves Drogba Tébily
  • Date of Birth: 11 March 1978
  • Height: 1.88 m (6 ft 2 in)
  • Position(s): Striker

First place in our list of the best Chelsea players goes to Didier Drogba. You might have heard of him. He’s from Ivory Coast and started his career as a forward in France. He is known as one of the greatest African strikers ever. He made a big impact when he joined Chelsea in 2004.

Growing up in a football-loving family, he worked hard to get better. Even with some injuries, Drogba didn’t give up and showed his talent. He got a lot of awards and success, especially during his time at Chelsea.

He was named Chelsea Player of the Year in 2010. He helped Chelsea win the Champions League in 2012 and reach the final in 2008. He was part of the team that won the English championship in 2005, 2006, 2010, and 2015. He was second in the league in 2007, 2008, and 2011. He also won the Community Shield in 2005 and 2009 and was a finalist in the English League Cup in 2008. He scored more than 100 goals in the Premier League for Chelsea and was the top scorer in a season multiple times.

Career Statistics with Chelsea:

CareerTeamAppGoals
2004–2012Chelsea341157
2014–2015Chelsea407

Honours With Chelsea:

  • Premier League: 2004–05, 2005–06, 2009–10, 2014–15
  • FA Cup: 2006–07, 2008–09, 2009–10, 2011–12
  • Football League Cup: 2004–05, 2006–07, 2014–15; runner-up: 2007–08
  • FA Community Shield: 2005, 2009
  • UEFA Champions League: 2011–12

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