Former Man Utd striker became the third person on the list of the league’s most valuable players. The 54-year-old joined Alan Shearer and Thierry Henry, who became members of the HoF in April.
The Frenchman began his career with Auxerre in 1983 and enjoyed his fair share of French top-flight with Marseille, Bordeaux and Nimes before eventually shifting to England in 1991. He played for Leeds and rivals Manchester United, where he would cement his status as one of the greats with 64 goals in 143 appearances.
“I am very happy and very proud.
“I would’ve been surprised not to be elected! I have been lucky to play in this team, with wonderful players, a wonderful manager and wonderful fans”
Cantona stated.
The France international won the English First Division title with Leeds in 1991-92 and added four titles in five seasons with the Red Devils. After his retirement in 1997, Cantona tried his luck with beach soccer and participated in the inaugural FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in 2005 in Rio de Janeiro.
Cantona also infamously launched a kung-fu kick at a fan after being sent off in a game against Crystal Palace back in January 1995. He received a nine-month ban for that incident as well.
“We won and it was the football I dreamed about because Manchester United, it’s a club where they want to win things but in a good way”
he added.
The Hall of Fame was started in April to “recognise and celebrate the exceptional skill and talent of players who have graced the League since its inception in 1992″, and fans were asked to vote for their favourite players from a 23-man shortlist, whereas votes from a Premier League awards panel was taken into account as well.
