West Ham legend Billy Bonds dies aged 79 | OneFootball

Former West Ham captain and legendary manager, Billy Bonds, has passed away at the age of 79, the Premier League club announced this Sunday. He is the player with the most appearances for the English club, having played 799 times over a 21-year career with the East Londoners.

He won the FA Cup twice, in 1975 and 1980, as well as reaching the European Cup Winners’ Cup final in 1976 and winning the old Second Division with the Hammers.

After starting his coaching career in West Ham’s youth ranks, Bonds was appointed head coach in February 1990. He secured promotion from the Second Division in 1991 and, after relegation from the top flight in 1992, led the club to promotion again the following year.

“We are heartbroken to announce that we lost our beloved father today. He was devoted to his family and was the kindest, most loyal, selfless, and loving person. Dad loved West Ham United and its wonderful supporters with all his heart and cherished every moment of his time at the club. He will always be in our hearts and will be forever remembered. We find comfort in knowing that his legacy will live on forever,” Bonds’ family said in an official statement.

Bonds left the Hammers in 1994, when he was replaced as manager by his assistant Harry Redknapp. Voted the greatest player in the club’s history, Bonds has a stand named in his honor at the London Stadium.

In an official statement, West Ham said:

“Never one to seek the spotlight, he was universally loved, respected, and admired by teammates, players, and supporters, who will forever consider themselves part of ‘Billy Bonds’ Claret and Blue Army.’ Rest in peace, Billy, our courageous, inspirational, lion-hearted leader.”

The club confirmed there will be a period of tribute to Bonds before the Premier League match against Liverpool this Sunday. A full tribute is scheduled to take place before the match against Aston Villa at the London Stadium on December 14.

Former West Ham midfielder Joe Cole also paid tribute:

“Billy was the manager when I signed as a youngster and he was very kind to me and my family. Growing up at West Ham, his name is synonymous with the club. Everything good about West Ham, Billy Bonds represented. It’s very sad news and my thoughts and prayers are with his family.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.