Celebrate 129 Years of West Ham with Our New Exclusive Timeline Poster
Celebrate 129 Years of West Ham with Our New Exclusive Timeline Poster
West Ham United FC is one of the most iconic football clubs in England, with a heritage that spans 129 years. Established as a works team in East London, West Ham has grown into a symbol of resilience, community, and pride. Known for producing legendary players and cultivating a dedicated fanbase, the club has enjoyed both triumphs and challenges. From early domestic successes and the development of its famous "Academy of Football" to its modern presence in the Premier League, West Ham’s journey is a testament to passion, persistence, and transformation in English football.
Throughout its history, West Ham has been home to legendary players who left an indelible mark on the club.
Here are our Top 10 West Ham Legends
Bobby Moore
Widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, Bobby Moore epitomises West Ham’s spirit. Playing for the Hammers from 1958 to 1974, Moore captained the team to their first FA Cup victory in 1964 and the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1965. Known for his exceptional tackling, composure, and leadership, he also captained England to World Cup glory in 1966. Moore’s legacy endures as an embodiment of class and dedication, and his statue stands outside Wembley Stadium as a testament to his impact.
Geoff Hurst
A goal-scoring legend, Geoff Hurst became an iconic figure at West Ham and internationally. Joining West Ham as a youth player in 1959, Hurst’s most famous achievement came in 1966 when he scored a hat-trick in the World Cup final, securing England’s victory. For West Ham, he scored 249 goals in 503 appearances, helping them win the FA Cup in 1964 and the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1965. His ability to find the net consistently made him a West Ham great, and he remains celebrated for his finishing skills and powerful presence.
Trevor Brooking
Known for his elegance on the ball and football intelligence, Trevor Brooking served West Ham from 1967 to 1984, making over 600 appearances. A two-time Hammer of the Year, Brooking was instrumental in West Ham’s 1975 and 1980 FA Cup triumphs. His winning goal in the 1980 FA Cup Final against Arsenal marked West Ham's last major trophy win. A technically gifted midfielder, Brooking is remembered for his loyalty, humility, and contributions both on and off the pitch, eventually serving on the FA board and influencing English football.
Billy Bonds
Billy Bonds is an embodiment of tenacity and loyalty, qualities cherished by West Ham fans. Spending over 20 years at the club, from 1967 to 1988, Bonds made a record 799 appearances for the Hammers. Known for his hard tackles, leadership, and stamina, Bonds captained the team during challenging years and led them to FA Cup victories in 1975 and 1980. His dedication to West Ham earned him legendary status, and he later returned as manager in the 1990s. Bonds’ contributions are honored with a stand in his name at the London Stadium.
Martin Peters
A versatile and highly skilled player, Martin Peters joined West Ham as a teenager in the early 1960s and quickly made a name for himself. Dubbed “The Ghost” due to his ability to find space on the field, Peters was known for his timing, positioning, and goal-scoring ability. He played a key role in England’s 1966 World Cup victory and was an integral part of West Ham’s success in the 1964 FA Cup and 1965 European Cup Winners' Cup. Peters later transferred to Tottenham, but he remains a West Ham legend for his remarkable footballing IQ.
Paolo Di Canio
An eccentric and passionate talent, Paolo Di Canio is one of West Ham’s most iconic signings. Known for his flair, skill, and sometimes volatile temperament, Di Canio joined West Ham in 1999 and quickly became a fan favorite. His remarkable goal against Wimbledon, a mid-air volley, is one of the Premier League’s most celebrated moments. Di Canio’s commitment and technical brilliance left a lasting impact, and his love for the club endures in the hearts of fans, who remember him as a player who could light up any game with moments of magic.
Frank Lampard Sr.
The father of the more widely known Frank Lampard Jr., Frank Lampard Sr. was a West Ham stalwart. He was a fierce left-back, who became one of the best in the world in that position thanks to his intelligence and bravery. He spent 18 years at the club from 1967 to 1985, making over 660 appearances. Known for his consistency, defensive reliability, and loyalty, Lampard Sr. was instrumental in West Ham’s FA Cup victories in 1975 and 1980. His contributions solidified his reputation as a club legend, and he later returned to West Ham in a coaching role, passing down his passion for the club to the next generation.
Rio Ferdinand
A product of West Ham’s famous Academy, Rio Ferdinand emerged as one of the most promising young defenders in English football during the late 1990s. Known for his elegance on the ball, composure, and exceptional athleticism, Ferdinand was pivotal in defense, making his debut at just 17. His talent attracted attention from top clubs, leading to his eventual transfer to Leeds United and later Manchester United, where he became one of England’s best defenders. Despite his short tenure, Ferdinand’s impact as a young player at West Ham set the stage for his illustrious career.
Tony Cottee
Tony Cottee was a prolific striker for West Ham in the 1980s, making a name for himself with his natural goal-scoring ability. Joining the club as a youth player, Cottee debuted at age 17 and quickly became one of the team’s top scorers. In the 1985-86 season, he scored 20 league goals, helping West Ham achieve their best-ever league finish of third in the First Division. Cottee’s instinctive finishing and close connection with fans made him a beloved figure, and he returned to the club in the 1990s, cementing his legacy.
Mark Noble
Often referred to as “Mr. West Ham,” Mark Noble’s loyalty and dedication to the club are unmatched in recent history. Spending his entire career with West Ham, from 2004 to 2022, Noble represented the team with pride, making over 500 appearances. Known for his leadership, passing ability, and work ethic, Noble became a key figure in the dressing room and on the pitch, guiding younger players and embodying the club’s spirit. While he may not have the trophies of past legends, Noble’s commitment and love for West Ham have made him an icon in modern times.
Celebrate West Ham Rich History
These ten legends, along with hundreds of other players who have donned the claret and blue since 1895, represent the heart, skill, and indomitable spirit of West Ham United. Their achievements and dedication have shaped the club’s legacy and made it a cornerstone of English football. Celebrate West Ham’s journey with memorabilia that captures the unforgettable moments and figures that define the club. Relive the magic of West Ham's storied history and the players who brought pride to East London.
Order your timeline print now and relive the moments that made West Ham FC