Arsenal Players

General Information

Martin Keown (born 24 July 1966) is an English former defender celebrated for his leadership, toughness, and consistency at Arsenal. A central figure in the club’s defense during the 1990s and early 2000s, Keown played a crucial role in multiple title-winning campaigns and remains a beloved figure among fans.

Early Life
Martin Keown was born in Oxford, England, and began playing football at a young age. He progressed through local youth systems before joining Arsenal’s youth academy, where his defensive abilities and determination stood out. Known for his physicality, positional awareness, and commitment, Keown quickly earned a reputation as a promising young defender.

Arsenal Career (1986–1988, 1993–2004)
Keown initially joined Arsenal in 1986 but struggled to establish himself, making only a handful of appearances before leaving for Aston Villa. After gaining experience at Villa and later Everton, he returned to Arsenal in 1993, becoming a central figure in the club’s defense under manager George Graham and later Arsène Wenger.

During his second spell at Arsenal, Keown won multiple trophies, including the Premier League titles of 1997–98, 2001–02, and 2003–04. He was also part of FA Cup-winning teams in 1998, 2002, and 2003, contributing crucial goals and leadership from the back. Keown’s no-nonsense defending, aerial ability, and intelligence made him a cornerstone of Arsenal’s backline, often forming a formidable partnership with Tony Adams.

International Career
Keown earned 43 caps for England between 1992 and 2000, representing the national team in major tournaments including the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 1996. Known for his reliability and defensive discipline, he provided England with a consistent presence in central defense.

Playing Style
Keown was a traditional centre-back, combining physical strength with tactical awareness. He excelled in one-on-one duels, aerial challenges, and reading the game. While he was not the most technically flashy defender, his concentration, work ethic, and leadership on the field made him invaluable. He was also capable of scoring important goals, particularly from set pieces.

Legacy and Impact at Arsenal
Martin Keown is remembered as one of Arsenal’s greatest defenders, embodying the club’s defensive resilience and professionalism during a golden era. His leadership, commitment, and tough-tackling style contributed to Arsenal’s domestic success, and he is still revered by fans for his loyalty and passion. Keown’s influence extends beyond his playing career, as he has remained involved in football as a pundit and ambassador for the club.