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West Ham United has mourned the loss of one of their greatest figures, Billy Bonds, who passed away at the age of 79. Bonds remains the club’s record appearance holder, having played an incredible 799 games for the Hammers. He captained the team to two memorable FA Cup victories in 1975 and 1980, cementing his legacy as a true club legend.
Bonds began his long association with West Ham in 1967 when he was signed from Charlton Athletic for £47,000. Over a remarkable 21-year playing career with the club, he primarily operated as a defender and midfielder. His final appearance came in April 1988 at the age of 41, the same year he was awarded an MBE for his services to football. He later transitioned into management, leading West Ham from 1990 until 1994. Throughout his tenure, he guided the club to two promotions into the top flight and departed after nearly three decades of dedication to the Hammers.
The club expressed its sorrow following Bonds’ peaceful passing on Sunday morning, referring to him as a “legendary player, coach and manager.” Fans and players alike paid tribute during West Ham’s league match against Liverpool, with black armbands worn and a moment of applause held in his memory. Current captain Jarrod Bowen honored Bonds by laying a shirt emblazoned with his name and number four in front of the stand named after him. Bowen described Bonds as “West Ham’s biggest legend” and reflected on his incredible achievements with the club.
Bonds’ impact on West Ham extended beyond his playing days. In 2013, he was awarded the club’s first ever lifetime achievement accolade, and in 2018, supporters voted him as the greatest player in West Ham history. He was further immortalized in 2019 when a stand at London Stadium was named in his honor, joining the ranks of club icons Bobby Moore and Sir Trevor Brooking. Tributes have come from all corners of the football community, including former West Ham midfielder Joe Cole, who recalled Bonds’ kindness and influence during his own early career with the club. West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo also offered his condolences, emphasizing Bonds’ embodiment of the spirit and identity of the club
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