By Muhammed Enes Calli
ANKARA (AA) - Legendary strikers Thierry Henry and Alan Shearer have become the first two footballers inducted into the Premier League Hall of Fame, the league announced on Monday.
"Two centre-forwards, both gifted with natural skill and talent who have written their names in Premier League history," it said on Twitter.
The Premier League Hall of Fame is the most prestigious individual award giving to players to honor their records and performances on the pitch as well as their contribution to the Premier League since 1992.
Players must have been retired as of Aug. 1, 2020, to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Eight players will be welcomed into the list this year.
Newcastle United legend Shearer, 50, scored 260 in 441 matches to become the highest goal scorer in the Premier League.
English center forward lifted the league title with Blackburn Rovers in 1995 as he also won two consecutive Premier League Golden Boots at this club.
With 148 goals in 303 league matches, Shearer is the leading league scorer of Newcastle United where he became the Premier League legend with his sensational form from 1996 to 2006.
Former French football star Henry, who scored 175 goals in 258 Premier League appearances, is regarded as one of the best forwards of his generation in Europe.
Henry, 43, also won the 1998 FIFA World Cup and the UEFA EURO 2000 title with France national team.
He won two Premier League titles with Arsenal in 2002 and 2004 as well as two FA Cups.