Introduction to Lincoln City Legendary Players
Lincoln City Football Club, affectionately known as the Imps, has a proud history dating back to 1884. Though they rarely trouble the top two divisions, having been outside that level since 1961, they still have a host of iconic players who have left their mark on the club.
From dominant defenders and dazzling wingers to prolific strikers and inspirational captains. This list celebrates the top ten greatest players ever to wear the red and white.
The Legacy of Lincoln City
From the early days at John O’Gaunts to the modern exploits at the LNER Stadium, Lincoln City’s legacy has been defined by resilience, community spirit, and the heroes who carried the club through its most significant chapters.
Whether fighting for promotion, pulling off dramatic FA Cup runs, or battling the drop, the Imps have always relied on leaders on the pitch. These players have become symbols of the club’s ambitions, embodying its values and thrilling supporters across the decades.
Criteria for Ranking the Best Players
Selecting the top ten players in Lincoln City’s history is no easy task. The ranking is based on several key criteria:
- Longevity and consistency: How long a player served the club and how consistently they performed.
- Individual impact: Goals, assists, defensive contributions, or leadership that changed games.
- Team success: Role in promotions, cup runs, or league survival.
- Legacy: How the player is remembered by fans and their lasting influence on the club’s culture.
- Recognition: Club awards, records held, or transfer fees reflecting their value.
1. Andy Graver (1950–1954, 1955–1956, 1958–1961)
Andy Graver is widely regarded as the greatest goalscorer in Lincoln City’s history, and with good reason. Across three separate spells at the club, the prolific centre-forward netted a remarkable 150 goals in 289 appearances, a club record that still stands to this day. Signed initially from Newcastle United in 1950, Graver made an instant impact and was a driving force in Lincoln’s 1951–52 Third Division North title-winning campaign, scoring 39 league goals — a single-season record for the club.
His predatory instincts, aerial prowess, and unerring composure in front of goal made him a nightmare for defenders. Even when he was sold to Leicester City in 1954 for a then-club record fee, his connection with Lincoln remained strong, and he returned twice more in subsequent years, continuing to find the net with regularity. Graver’s influence went far beyond just statistics; he was the spearhead of one of the most successful sides in club history, spending ten years in the Second Division.
2. Grant Brown (1989–2002)
Grant Brown’s place in Lincoln City folklore is cemented by one simple fact — no player has made more appearances for the club. The dependable defender featured an astonishing 491 times in all competitions across a 13-year spell, setting the benchmark for loyalty, resilience, and consistency. Signed from Leicester City in 1989, Brown became the rock at the heart of the Imps’ backline throughout the 1990s and into the new millennium.
Strong in the air, composed on the ball, and a natural organiser, Brown was not just a regular — he was the ever-present cornerstone of a side that experienced promotion, relegation, and numerous battles to establish themselves in the Football League. His leadership qualities saw him wear the armband on several occasions, and his professionalism became a blueprint for those who followed. Few players have ever embodied the spirit of Lincoln City quite like Brown, whose service went beyond his playing days and into coaching roles and caretaker manager stints at the club.
3. Gareth Ainsworth (1995–1997)
Gareth Ainsworth may have only spent two seasons at Lincoln City, but his electrifying performances on the wing made a lasting impression. Signed from Preston North End in 1995, Ainsworth quickly became the heartbeat of the Imps’ attack, dazzling supporters with his pace, dribbling ability, and eye for goal. In 1996–97, his contribution was instrumental as Lincoln mounted a push for promotion from the Third Division, culminating in a third-place finish and automatic promotion under John Beck.
Nicknamed “Wild Thing” for his rockstar looks and energetic style, Ainsworth scored 37 goals in just 89 league appearances — a remarkable return for a wide midfielder. His flair was matched by a relentless work ethic, endearing him to fans and earning him a club-record transfer to Port Vale in 1997. Though his stay was brief, Ainsworth’s talent and impact left a legacy that endures, and he remains one of the most gifted players to have worn the red and white in the modern era.
4. Gordon Hobson (1978–1985, 1988–1990)
Gordon Hobson is one of Lincoln City’s finest attacking talents, remembered for his skill, versatility, and exceptional goalscoring record. Initially joining the club in 1978, Hobson rose through the ranks to become a key figure in the side during a period of great change. Capable of playing both out wide and up front, he brought flair, intelligence, and a clinical edge to the Imps’ forward line, netting 53 goals during his first spell.
After productive years at Southampton and Grimsby Town, Hobson returned to Lincoln in 1988 and picked up where he left off, adding another 21 goals in his second stint. His total of 74 goals places him among the club’s top scorers, and his ability to unlock defences with either foot made him a standout performer across both spells. Hobson combined technical class with a cool head in front of goal, and his enduring connection with the club has made him a fan favourite across multiple generations.
5. Dave Smith (1968–1978)
Dave Smith was one of Lincoln City’s most skilful and consistent performers, making over 400 senior appearances during a decade-long spell that saw him become a club legend. Signed in 1968 from Middlesbrough, Smith made an immediate impact on debut in a 5–0 win over Notts County — a match that also saw future manager Graham Taylor make his City debut. From that point on, Smith was a near ever-present on the left flank, combining flair with relentless work rate.
Operating primarily as an outside left, Smith was the creative heartbeat of the side and played a vital role in arguably Lincoln’s greatest ever campaign — the 1975–76 Fourth Division title-winning season. He famously netted the Imps’ 100th league goal of that historic campaign in a 3–0 win at Stockport, marking one of many contributions to a team that broke Football League records. Smith ended his Lincoln career with 358 league appearances (plus 13 as substitute) and 52 league goals, alongside standout contributions in cup competitions.
6. Tony Emery (1946–1959)
Tony Emery was a one-club man whose dedication and consistency made him a fixture in the Lincoln City defence for over a decade. Joining the Imps after World War II, Emery spent 13 seasons at Sincil Bank, amassing an impressive 402 league appearances — a figure that still places him among the club’s all-time leaders. Primarily deployed as a full-back, Emery was known for his tough tackling, positional intelligence, and unwavering commitment to the badge.
He was an integral part of the side that won the Third Division North title in 1947–48, helping the Imps secure promotion with a defensive resilience that defined the campaign. In an era of heavy pitches and uncompromising physicality, Emery thrived, rarely missing a game and consistently shackling the opposition’s most dangerous players. Though not a headline-grabber, his durability and quiet leadership became a backbone for Lincoln sides through the late 1940s and 1950s.
7. John Ward (1970–1979)
John Ward was a vital part of Lincoln City’s attacking force throughout the 1970s, combining sharp finishing with tireless running and clever movement. Signed in 1970, Ward went on to make 240 league appearances for the Imps, scoring 91 goals — placing him high on the club’s all-time scoring charts. He was especially prolific during the mid-70s under the management of Graham Taylor, forming a fearsome partnership with fellow striker Percy Freeman.
Ward played a key role in the club’s record-breaking 1975–76 Fourth Division title win, where Lincoln scored over 100 league goals. His ability to find space, link up play, and finish clinically made him a constant threat in and around the box. Ward’s intelligence and technique made him a nightmare for defenders.
After leaving Lincoln, Ward went on to have a respected coaching and managerial career, including spells in charge of Bristol City, Cheltenham Town, and Carlisle United.
8. Glenn Cockerill (1976–1979, 1992–1993)
Glenn Cockerill’s Lincoln City story spans two key spells, beginning with his professional debut as a teenager in 1976. Across three seasons in his first stint, Cockerill made 115 league appearances and established himself as one of the club’s most naturally gifted midfielders, boasting excellent vision, precise passing, and a keen eye for goal. His calmness on the ball and maturity beyond his years earned him a move to Swindon Town in 1979.
After his spell with Swindon, Cockerill returned to Sincil Bank in 1981 for a second spell that further enhanced his reputation. Over the next three years, he added another 108 league appearances and 23 goals, becoming a key figure in a side pushing for success under Colin Murphy. His performances during this period helped him secure a high-profile move to Sheffield United before arriving in the top flight with Southampton, where he went on to enjoy a long and successful First Division career.
9. Alan Marriott (1999–2008)
Alan Marriott is one of the most consistent and popular goalkeepers in Lincoln City’s modern history, remembered not just for his shot-stopping ability, but also for his loyalty and leadership. Signed from Tottenham Hotspur in 1999, Marriott went on to make over 350 league appearances for the Imps, becoming the club’s number one for nearly a decade and playing under a string of managers during a turbulent but competitive period.
Nicknamed “Mazza” by fans, Marriott was a key figure in the Imps’ run of four consecutive play-off appearances in the early 2000s under Keith Alexander. His reflexes, command of the penalty area, and ability to pull off stunning saves in tight games made him an ever-present in sides that consistently punched above their weight. He was also a calming presence behind a changing backline, earning the trust of supporters and teammates alike.
Marriott’s dedication to the club was evident in his near ten-year service, curtailed by a brutal release under Peter Jackson. While promotions eluded Lincoln during that time, his performances were often the reason they were in the mix. He remains one of the most admired goalkeepers in the club’s long history — a true modern-day legend.
10. Matt Rhead (2015–2019)
Matt Rhead’s rise to legendary status at Lincoln City is the stuff of modern football folklore. Signed from Mansfield Town in 2015, the towering striker was initially seen as a traditional target man — but under Danny Cowley’s management, he became the beating heart of a side that achieved the unthinkable. Rhead played a vital role in the Imps’ remarkable resurgence, culminating in the National League title in 2016–17 and a stunning run to the FA Cup quarter-finals.
Uncompromising, unselfish, and beloved by supporters, Rhead used his physicality and footballing intelligence to great effect. He wasn’t just a battering ram up top — his hold-up play, vision, and ability to bring others into the game allowed players like Matt Green and Nathan Arnold to thrive. Rhead scored 15 goals in that historic 2016–17 campaign and remained a key figure as the Imps went on to win the EFL Trophy in 2018 and the League Two title in 2018–19.
While he may not have the technical finesse of others on this list, Rhead’s sheer impact, popularity, and role in one of the most successful periods in club history earn him a deserved place among the Imps’ all-time greats.
