Arsenal's record goalscorer before Thierry Henry — 185 goals for the Gunners after not turning professional until the age of 22. Signed from Crystal Palace for £2.5m, he won the Premier League, FA Cup and European Cup Winners' Cup with Arsenal. His infectious enthusiasm and goal celebrations made him one of the most beloved figures in English football, and his television career has made him a national treasure.
Ian Edward Wright was born in Woolwich, London in 1963. He played non-league football until Crystal Palace signed him aged 21. He moved to Arsenal in 1991 for £2.5 million and became the club's all-time leading scorer with 185 goals — a record that stood until Thierry Henry surpassed it in 2005. He was PFA Players' Player of the Year in 1992 and FWA Footballer of the Year in 1998. He won the FA Cup (1993), League Cup (1987 with Palace) and Cup Winners' Cup (1994) with Arsenal. He earned 33 England caps, scoring 9 goals. He was a vocal advocate against racism in football throughout his career. After retirement he became one of television's most popular football personalities — appearing on Match of the Day and hosting his own shows. He has been open about experiencing racism in football and about his difficult childhood. He was awarded an MBE in 2000. His late start as a professional footballer makes his goalscoring record all the more remarkable.
FA Cup 1993, 1998 (Arsenal)
Career Honours
- FA Cup 1993, 1998 (Arsenal)
- League Cup 1993
- Coppa delle Coppe 1994
- Premier League top scorer 1992, 1997
- FWA Footballer of Year 1992