The guardians of our goal

Step into the history of Tottenham Hotspur through the eyes of the shot-stoppers who have protected our net. Discover the legends who have worn the gloves and left an indelible mark on our club's story.  From our humble beginnings on the marshes and Stuart Leaman to the modern day they are possibly the most vilified souls on the pitch with every mistake amplified but here we showcase their achievements as their contribution to our success becomes very clear.

Ted Ditchburn: Post WWII

One of Tottenham Hotspur's most iconic goalkeepers, Ted Ditchburn played a pivotal role in the club's "push and run" side of the early 1950s. Known for his agility and commanding presence, Ditchburn was a cornerstone of the team that secured the First Division title in 1951. With 452 appearances in all competitions Ted sits 7th on our all-time list.

Bill Brown: the double winner's wall

Bill Brown arrived at Tottenham Hotspur in 1959 and quickly established himself as a world-class goalkeeper. He was an integral part of the legendary double-winning side of 1960-61, showcasing incredible consistency and a calm demeanour under pressure.  The emergence of Pat Jennings led to his departure in 1966 after 262 first team appearances.

Pat Jennings: a giant between the posts

Pat Jennings is widely regarded as one of the finest goalkeepers of his generation, spending 13 incredible years at Tottenham Hotspur. His exceptional shot-stopping abilities made him a fan favourite and he remaions so even to this day. Jennings won the FA Cup, two League Cups, and the UEFA Cup with Spurs. His remarkable career saw him make 591 first team appearances for the club sitting him 3rd of all-time.

Ray Clemence: reliability personified

Ray Clemence brought a wealth of experience and championship pedigree when he joined Tottenham Hotspur in 1981. Known for his consistent performances and leadership, Clemence quickly became a crucial part of the Spurs squad. He helped the club win the FA Cup in 1982 and made 330 first team appearances during his 7 years with us. His professionalism and reliable displays are remembered fondly by Spurs supporters, marking him as a significant figure in the club's goalkeeping history.  Ray oversaw first-team affairs in our maiden Premier League season alongside Doug Livermore.

Hugo Lloris: a modern-day icon

Hugo Lloris served Tottenham Hotspur with distinction for over a decade, captaining the team for many years and becoming one of the most respected figures in the club's recent history.   He is the clubs most represented player in the Premier League (361) and with 447 first-team appearances sits 8th on our all-time list just 5 behind Ted Ditchburn.

Clean sheets - The complete breakdown

You will be pleased to know that I have gone through the archives and recorded every single clean-sheet and who kept it.  The records begin from 13th October 1894 and our early FA Cup matches to the present day.  These records will be updated within 24 hours of any clean sheet that is kept during a first team match.

Cuthbert Monk kept goal in that first ever FA Cup tie against West Herts and to date 77 goalkeepers have represented the club in official first-team competition.  19 have kept a clean sheet on their debut - Thomas Hatfield was the first in 1897 with the last being Antonin Kinski against Liverpool on 8.1.2025.

John Eadon must have had a miserable evening on 13th February 1915 conceding 7 on his debut as must Johnny Hollowbread  who conceded 5!

Two goalkeepers scored in a Football League fixture - John 'Tiny' Joyce in 1914 and Paul Robinson in 2007.  An honourable mention must go to Pat Jennings who scored too in a Charity Shield match against Manchester United in 1967!

Clean Sheet history

1,454 in total (1,119 Football League, 145 FA Cup, 100 Europe & 90 League Cup)

  1. 176 Pat Jennings
  2. 149 Hugo Lloris
  3. 120 Ray Clemence
  4. 120 Ted Ditchburn