Fans vote for their favourite Burton Albion players

By Josh Page

A recent fan vote asking supporters to name their favourite Burton Albion players has produced an interesting mix of modern stars and club legends.

From promotion heroes to standout performers during the Brewers’ rise through the English football pyramid, the results reflect the players who left the strongest impressions on supporters during some of the club’s most memorable periods.

Topping the poll was attacking midfielder Nasser El Khayati, with several other influential figures from Burton’s recent history also receiving strong support.

For exclusive stories and all the detailed EFL news you need, subscribe to The Football League Paper website, digital edition, or newspaper from as little as 14p a day.

Nasser El Khayati

Leading the fan vote with 11.27% of the total vote, El Khayati remains one of the most technically gifted players to represent Burton.

The Dutch midfielder joined the Brewers in January 2015 during the club’s League Two promotion charge, and quickly became known for his creativity, composure on the ball, and ability to unlock defences.

During Burton’s historic back-to-back promotion, El Khayati played an integral role in Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink’s side before leaving for QPR alongside his countryman.

His flair and attacking instincts made him a quick fan favourite, with his short stint at The Pirelli still being fondly remembered.

Jackson Irvine

Second in the vote with 9.86% was Australian international Jackson Irvine, another key figure in Burton’s recent history.

Irvine joined the Brewers from Ross County in 2016 and immediately became a central figure in midfield during the club’s first-ever Championship campaign.

Known for his relentless work rate and ability to contribute with goals from midfield, Irvine was a crucial figure as Burton battled to retain their second-tier status.

His performances that season, including an impressive haul of 10 league goals, cemented his reputation as one of the club’s standout Championship era players.

Jacques Maghoma

Former DR Congo international Jacques Maghoma finished third in the fan vote with 8.45%.

Maghoma’s time at Burton brought experience and creativity to the squad.

A versatile winger capable of playing across attacking positions, he provided leadership and attacking quality during a period when the Brewers were competing against a higher level of EFL opponents following their promotion to League Two.

His professionalism and consistency made him a respected figure in the squad, while his attacking capabilities added to his fan favourite tag.

Throughout his 172 appearances at the Pirelli Stadium, Maghoma contributed 32 goals and 23 assists in his four years at the club.

An impressive return that saw Burton rise to a competitive side in League Two, before earning a move to Championship side Sheffield Wednesday.

Lucas Akins and Michael Kightly

Both Lucas Akins and Michael Kightly received 5.63% of the vote.

Akins remains one of Burton’s most consistent modern-era players. Known for his versatility, physicality and leadership, Akins played multiple roles for the Brewers.

From winger to striker and even full back, he played 346 games for Albion, contributing 71 goals and 28 assists in his seven and a half years at the club.

Meanwhile, Kightly, a former Premier League winger with Wolves and Burnley, brought experience and creativity to the Brewers during their Championship campaign.

Although Kightly only made 12 appearances for Burton, his ability to deliver quality from wide areas and get fans of their seat added another dimension to the Brewers attacking force.

Honourable mentions

Several players from Burton’s earlier promotion-winning side also received 2.82% of the votes from supporters.

Names such as Darren Stride, Keith Gilroy, Shaun Harrad, Stuart Beavon and Billy Kee all played vital roles during the club’s rise from non-league to the heights of the EFL Championship.

These players helped establish the foundations for the club’s modern success, contributing to promotions, memorable cup runs and historical league achievements.

Foundations of the club

This fan vote highlights the wide range of players who have contributed to the club’s journey in recent decades.

From creative midfielders to tireless performers and long-serving players, Burton’s story has been shaped by players who embraced the club’s hardworking identity, an ideology represented by Albion’s most iconic figure, Nigel Clough.

As the club continue their journey in the EFL, new players will aim to create their own legacies, and perhaps one day, earn a place in future fan votes celebrating the club’s most beloved idols.

READ MORE: Lincoln City 3-1 Stockport County: Imps make it 20 unbeaten to break club record