10 Greatest West Bromwich Albion Strikers Ever
West Bromwich Albion, a club steeped in rich footballing history, has seen a multitude of talented strikers grace the pitch at The Hawthorns. From legendary goal-scorers who led the team to historic victories, to modern-day heroes who have left an indelible mark on the club’s legacy, these forwards have thrilled fans with their exceptional skill, determination, and knack for finding the back of the net.
In this article, let us have a look at some of the greatest West Bromwich Albion strikers ever, honouring their contributions and reliving their most memorable moments that have defined eras and brought glory to West Brom.
Based on impact, ability, goals-scoring ratio & success, here are the 10 greatest West Bromwich Albion strikers ever.
10. Lee Hughes (1997–2001, 2002–2004)
Lee Hughes made a significant impact at West Bromwich Albion from 1997 to 2004. In his debut season, he scored 17 goals and helped the team secure promotion to the Premier League. He remained a crucial player, often finishing as the club’s top scorer and earning a reputation as a fan favourite.
Despite his on-field success, Hughes’ time at Albion was overshadowed by off-field issues, including a conviction that led to a prison sentence. He left the club with 98 goals in 237 appearances, leaving behind a legacy of both remarkable talent and controversy.
9. Romelu Lukaku (2012-13)
Romelu Lukaku’s loan spell at West Bromwich Albion in 2012 was a standout season. On loan from Chelsea, he scored on his debut in a 3-0 win over Liverpool and delivered braces against Reading and Sunderland, quickly establishing himself as a key player.
Lukaku’s final game at The Hawthorns was unforgettable, as he netted a second-half hat-trick in a thrilling 5-5 draw against Manchester United in Sir Alex Ferguson’s farewell match. Although speculation arose about his return to Albion, he joined Everton instead, continuing his rise before a major move to Manchester United.
8. Peter Odemwingie (2010–2013)
Peter Odemwingie quickly became a fan favourite after joining West Bromwich Albion in 2010, scoring on his Premier League debut in a 1-0 win over Sunderland. He had an outstanding first season, contributing 15 goals and seven assists to help the team avoid relegation.
Odemwingie cemented his legacy with a hat trick in a 5-1 win over Wolves at Molineux. Despite a dramatic transfer saga, he left for Cardiff City after scoring 30 Premier League goals, a club record. He later played for Stoke, Bristol City, and Rotherham before finishing his career in Indonesia.
7. Kevin Phillips (2006-2008)
Kevin Phillips’ time at West Bromwich Albion was short but impactful. Joining in 2006 after successful stints with Sunderland and Southampton, he scored 16 goals in 36 games, including two hat tricks, helping Albion reach the play-offs. Phillips shone in the semi-finals, scoring three goals across two legs against Wolves to secure a spot at Wembley.
Though Albion lost the final to Derby, Phillips was instrumental the next season, netting 22 goals as they won the Championship title. He left for Birmingham City before playing for Blackpool, Crystal Palace, and Leicester, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest West Bromwich Albion strikers ever
6. Derek Kevan (1953–1963)
Derek “The Tank” Kevan made a major impact at West Bromwich Albion after joining from Bradford Park Avenue in 1953. Known for his strength and goal-scoring ability, he formed successful partnerships with Ronnie Allen and Bobby Robson, helping Albion excel in the First Division.
Kevan was Albion’s top scorer for six seasons, including a remarkable 33-goal campaign in 1961/62. After leaving in 1963, he played for Chelsea, Manchester City, Crystal Palace, Peterborough United, and Stockport County, maintaining his reputation as a prolific striker until his retirement. He is rightly regarded as one of the greatest West Bromwich Albion strikers ever.
5. Bob Taylor (1992–1998 & 2000–2003)
In the early 1990s, Bob Taylor emerged as West Bromwich Albion’s savior, joining from Bristol City in 1992 when the club was struggling in the third tier. Despite missing the playoffs, Taylor scored eight goals in 19 games, setting the stage for an iconic career.
Nicknamed “Super Bob,” he scored 30 goals the next season, leading Albion to promotion via the play-offs. Returning in 2000 under Gary Megson, Taylor helped secure promotion to the Premier League in 2002. Across two spells, his 113 league goals solidified his status as a Black Country legend.
4. Cyrille Regis (1977-1984)
Cyrille Regis enjoyed a prolific career, with his best years at West Bromwich Albion. Nicknamed “Smokin’ Joe” for his powerful build akin to boxer Joe Frazier, he debuted in 1977 with two goals in a 4-0 League Cup win over Rotherham. His iconic 1982 long-range strike against Norwich was voted Goal of the Season.
Named Young Player of the Year in 1979, Regis is regarded as one of Albion’s greatest players. Though he later played for Coventry City, Aston Villa, Wolves, and Wycombe, his success at West Brom cemented his legacy as one of their all-time great strikers.
3. Jeff Astle (1964-1974)
Jeff Astle, known for his thunderous headers and commanding presence, joined West Bromwich Albion in 1964 for £25,000. He scored 174 goals in 361 games, including the winner in the 1968 FA Cup Final, completing the rare feat of scoring in every round of the competition. Astle also netted in the 1970 League Cup Final, becoming the first player to score in both finals.
At his peak, “ASTLE IS THE KING” was emblazoned on Primrose Bridge in the Black Country. Despite earning only five England caps, he remains an Albion legend. Astle later played in non-league football before retiring.
2. Ronnie Allen (1950-1961)
Ronnie Allen was one of West Bromwich Albion’s most complete forwards, renowned for his versatility and footballing intellect. Often compared to Puskás, Allen redefined the center-forward role by dropping deep and orchestrating play. He scored twice in Albion’s 1954 FA Cup Final win and earned five England caps during his career.
Joining Albion from Port Vale in 1950, Allen scored prolifically before moving to Crystal Palace in 1961. His association with Albion extended beyond playing, as he served as manager, general manager, scout, and advisor at various times, leaving a lasting legacy as a visionary and club legend.
1. W.G. Richardson (1929-1945)
William ‘Ginger’ Richardson served West Bromwich Albion with distinction for 16 years, scoring an incredible 202 goals in 320 appearances. Known for his prolific scoring, he netted ten hat-tricks, scored four goals in a game on four occasions, and remains the first Albion player to reach 200 league goals.
Richardson set a Guinness World Record in 1931 by scoring four goals in five minutes against West Ham. He also scored both goals in Albion’s 2-1 victory in the 1931 FA Cup Final. His 39-goal haul in the 1935-36 season remains a club record in the top flight.