Legendary West Ham player and manager Billy Bonds dies as tributes pour in

West Ham legend Billy Bonds has died at the age of 79, it has been announced.

He amassed a club record 799 appearances across a 21-year playing career with the Hammers – captaining the club to two FA Cup triumphs.

Reuters

After hanging up his boots at the age of 41, he was handed a coaching role in the team before becoming manager in 1990.

A statement from the family of Billy Bonds read: “We are heartbroken to announce that we lost our beloved Dad today. He was devoted to his family and was the most kind, loyal, selfless, and loving person.

“Dad loved West Ham United and its wonderful supporters with all his heart and treasured every moment of his time at the Club.

“He will always be in our hearts and eternally missed. We take comfort knowing that his legacy will live on forever.”

A message from West Ham read: “It is with deep sadness and the heaviest of hearts that West Ham United announces the passing this morning of legendary player, coach and manager, Billy Bonds MBE.

“Rest in peace Billy, our courageous, inspirational, lion-hearted leader.”

West Ham will hold a period of appreciation before their Premier League clash with Liverpool on Sunday.

Billy Bonds career

Bonds started his career at Charlton before being snapped up by the Hammers in May 1967 for £47,000.

He went on to be their longest serving player in their club’s history and even had two testimonials.

Bonds’ finest moments came when he captained the club to FA Cup glory in 1974/75 and then again in 1979/80.

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He also helped them win the Second Division title in the 1980/81 season.

His playing career ended in 1988 after a 21-year career at Upton Park, but his association with the Hammers did not end there.

He worked as a coach in the youth team before being appointed first-team manager in 1990.

After relegation in 1992, he led them back to the top flight in 1993 as they became a Premier League club for the first time.

He guided them to a 13th-place finish and was replaced by Harry Redknapp.

Bonds finally left Upton Park in 1994 after a 27 year association with the club as player, coach and manager.

Rex

In 2018, he was voted West Ham’s greatest ever player and had a stand named after him at the London Stadium.