I don’t consider Clapton to be ROCK guitar player, or really that good to be considered on this discussion. I know he gets respect, but for what. Jammin the blues? Hell Steavy Ray V. is way better than Clapton.
I like some Clapton and give the respect for what he has done with music. But really I have never heard any truly virtuoso guitar playing from Clapton.
Eddie learned Clapton solely because Clapton came before him. But coming before doesn’t necessarily mean you have more influence. Just means, you came before.