1890s

The 1890s saw some changes in football, largely due to the turning point that occurred in the scenario, in which England began to stand out more than Scotland. And this, moreover, was notably seen due to the abundance of quality in the components of the English lines. Players such as G. O. Smith, Ernest Needham, Jimmy Crabtree, Steve Bloomer, John Goodall, etc., are some examples that reflect the high caliber that England possessed. Scotland, in turn, still maintained a high level of football, but giving up some of its players, such as Nick Ross and James Cowan. Nevertheless, it had an impressive selection throughout the decade, with names that were still very strong — Walter Arnott, for instance — and names that would shine splendidly throughout the decade, such as Robert Smyth McColl and John Campbell.

However, for that decade, the English names stood out in addition to the Scottish ones. Some are even mentioned as the best footballers of all-time.

THE GREAT HALF-BACKS.

In Victorian Era, it was common to view people mentioning the names of Jimmy Crabtree, of Aston Villa F.C., and Ernest Needham, of Sheffield United F.C.,  and it continued for many decades afterward  as to which of the two was better. Both with exceptional qualities for their time, two footballers who stood out a lot.


Ernest Needham.

Needham, the captain of Sheffield United F.C., was not a physically prominent footballer, but he had ample stamina, which allowed him to keep up the pace throughout the match. Although he was not tall or robust, he made up for it with his advanced technique and tactical knowledge. Needham was a highly versatile player, able to play in all outfield positions. He was, however, most notably at his best playing as a left half-back, an extra full-back and the initiator of his teams' attacking moves. Needham was the brain and soul of his team, the Napoleon of his side. While on the field, Needham enhanced the qualities of his teammates.


A. J. B.: As a captain he got more out of his men than any other man of his time and this alone easily swings the balance in this favour. The Sheffield players would have implicitly attempted abything that "Nudger" Needham desired them to, and the honours they won during the period of Needham's brilliance speaks for itself.


On the other hand, Jimmy Crabtree, of Aston Vila F.C., was a calmer player, much quieter than Needham. He was also physically stronger and quicker than the Sheffield United footballer. His game was based on his natural, calm style of football. His playing style was more defensive, even when playing at left half-back — a position that many claimed was his best. He was more positional than Needham, much more focused on one specific area of ​​the field; he hardly dared to venture out.


JAMES CRABTREE: I have seen Ernest Needham leave his wing open in a way I should never have dared to do.


The Villain's left-back and left half-back was incredibly technical, skillful, always possessing method and elegance, and, like Needham, he had a very advanced reading of the game. 

To conclude the article, I tend to lean towards the choice of  Jimmy Crabtree.