The National Football Museum is delighted to announce that Les Ferdinand will be inducted into the National Football Museum Hall of Fame during a special ceremony at the museum in Manchester on Tuesday 17 February.
The date holds particular significance, marking the anniversary of Ferdinand’s England debut in 1993, a match in which he also scored his first international goal. His induction follows public voting in 2025, reflecting the esteem in which he is held by football supporters across generations.
As part of the induction, Ferdinand will also make an object donation to the museum’s collection, ensuring his story and achievements are preserved as part of the national Football Heritage Collection.
Renowned as one of the most complete centre-forwards of the Premier League era, Ferdinand enjoyed an outstanding playing career spanning more than two decades. He scored 149 Premier League goals in 351 games, combining physical power, technical ability and intelligence in attack.
His club career included notable spells with Queens Park Rangers, Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United and Leicester City, among others.
Ferdinand was a central figure in Newcastle United’s iconic mid-1990s teams, helping the club to consecutive Premier League runners-up finishes and becoming one of the division’s most feared strikers.
He later captained Tottenham Hotspur and consistently delivered at the highest level of English football, currently standing as the twelfth highest scorer in PL history.
At international level, he earned 17 caps for England, scoring five goals. The first of which came on this very day in 1995 against San Marino. Ferdinand would go on to be part of the Euro 96 and World Cup 98 squads.
Beyond his achievements on the pitch, Ferdinand’s contribution to football has continued long after his playing career ended. He has held significant leadership roles, most notably as Director of Football at Queens Park Rangers, where he has been instrumental in shaping long-term strategy, supporting player development and championing higher standards of governance within the game.
Ferdinand has also been a prominent and respected voice on issues of equality, diversity and inclusion, using his platform to challenge discrimination and promote positive change within football and wider society — work that reflects the Hall of Fame’s recognition of individuals who have made a lasting and meaningful impact on the game.
Speaking ahead of the ceremony, Les Ferdinand said: “It’s an absolute honour to be inducted into the National Football Museum Hall of Fame alongside some of the great players and managers that have graced the Premier League!”
“Football has been such a big part of my life, and to have my career recognised in this way — especially on the anniversary of my England debut — means a great deal to me. I’m also proud to be able to donate an object to the museum and contribute to telling the story of the game for future generations.”
Tim Desmond, CEO of the National Football Museum, said:
“Les Ferdinand exemplifies what the Hall of Fame stands for. He was an exceptional footballer, a leader on the pitch, and someone who has continued to serve the game with integrity, intelligence and purpose off it. His induction, decided by public vote, showcases how he’s cherished in the English game and recognises both his footballing excellence and wider contribution to the sport.”