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IRELAND International Friendly
HOLLAND International Friendly
WALES International Friendly
BELGIUM International Friendly
GERMANY Interantional Friendly
HARRY STAPLEY (1905-1908)
Centre-forward Harry was an amateur throughout his career. He became a teacher and worked in various parts of the country. He played for Bromley, Norwich CEYMS and Reading (no first team games) before, around 1904, leaving Reading Collegiate School for Woodford College in Essex. He became captain of Woodford Town before accepting an invitation to play for West Ham in 1905. Although he was small, slight and had no Southern League experience, Stapley prospered. He shunned the physical aspect of the game and instead relied on skill and guile. He was 22 when he made his Hammers debut, on the same day as Grassham returned to the club from Leyton, and scored the only goal of the game against Portsmouth 23rd December 1905. Stapley's arrival meant that Hilsdon had to make way, although the new man's availability was governed by his teaching duties. Stapley won 15 England Amateur caps, five as a Hammer, and
helped Great Britain win the first-ever Olympic football title in 1908. He ended each of his two and a half seasons at Upton Park as leading scorer and repeated that feat in four out of five seasons with Glossop.
Born. Tunbridge Wells, Kent 29/04/1883.
Southern Lge apps: 71 (gls 39) Cup: 4 (gls 2)
SWITZERLAND International Friendly
WALES International Friendly
BELGIUM International Friendly
GERMANY International Friendly
HOLLAND International Friendly
DENMARK International Friendly
IRELAND International Friendly
1910
1911
1911
1911
1911
1912
1912
Southern League
1911
IRISH LEAGUE
George Webb's
England Amateur International cap
England v. Denmark
GEORGE KITCHEN - Southern League
1911
1911
1911
ENGLISH LEAGUE
SCOTTISH LEAGUE
IRISH LEAGUE
GEORGE KITCHEN (1905-1911)
Goalkeeper George Kitchen was also a professional golfer when he arrived at Upton Park from Everton in 1905. He played for Stockport County, then in the Lancashire League, he signed for Everton in 1898 but made only three first team appearances in as many seasons before becoming established for the next three seasons. After Everton signed two well-known 'keepers, L.R. Roose (Stoke) and Billy Scott (Linfield), Kitchen collected his share of a benefit and joined Hammers, making his debut against Swindon Town on the 2nd September 1905 in a 1-0 victory - and scoring a goal. His late penalty ensured that Hammers, fielding seven new faces, started off the season on a right note. Kitchen was often quite superb in an otherwise 'leaky' West Ham defence. In 1906, in a Cup game at Woolwich, he played brilliantly in goal, denying a rampant home forward line, before scoring a penalty. A serious injury in a Cup match at Newcastle in 1908 almost ended his career but he bounced back to enjoy three more seasons with Hammers and two with Southampton, for whom he played between 1912-14. After his football career was over he became a golf professional.
Born. Fairfield, near Buxton Derbyshire 1876.
Southern Lge apps: 184 (gls 5) Cup: 21 (gls 1)
DANNY SHEA - Southern League
1911
IRISH LEAGUE
DANNY SHEA (1907-1913 & 1920-1921)
Charlie Paynter discovered this brilliant inside-forward on the club's doorstep, playing Sunday morning football for the Builders Arms pub team in Stratford and also for Manor Park Albion in 1908. Made his Southern League debut in the away fixture against Norwich City in a 1-1 draw on the 7th December 1907. A superb ball-player, hard to dispossess, he developed into a consistent goalscorer and became the leading light in West Ham's attack. His fine form didn't fail to catch the attention of Football League club's and after 166 Southern League appearances for Hammers, Blackburn Rovers duly broke the existing transfer record to take him to Ewood Park for £2,000 in 1913. It proved to be a shrewd transaction on Hammers part when, after winning two England caps and a First Division Championship medal while at Rovers, he returned South during the Was years to make a further 75 appearances in the claret-and-blue as a guest player in the hastily-formed London Combination. He also had a spell with Nottingham Forest in 1918-19, and was in the side which defeated Everton in the Final of the Victory Shield. Although Danny went back to Blackburn with cessation of hostilities to win further England honours in two Victory Internationals against Scotland. Danny returned for a second spell at the Boleyn. It proved to be an abortive reunion, however, for after 16 Second Division outings and a solitary goal to show for his efforts in 1920-21, he transferred to Fulham after a difference of opinion with the West Ham management in November 1920. Born. Wapping, London. November 1887.
Apps: 195 (gls 112) Cup: 22 (gls 10)
TOMMY RANDALL – Southern League
1912
1912
1912
1913
1913
ENGLISH LEAGUE
SCOTTISH LEAGUE
IRISH LEAGUE
ENGLISH LEAGUE
IRISH LEAGUE
TOMMY RANDALL (1907-1914)
Tommy began his Upton Park career as an amateur inside-forward but the fans disliked his thoughtful slow approach to the game (called him "Old Mother Randall") and almost drove him out of football with their barracking. Then, at Charlie Paynter's benefit against Woolwich Arsenal on the 15th November 1906, the Hammers' trainer persuaded a disillusioned Tommy Randall to turn out at half-back as a personal favour. He was such a success in his new role that he was signed on as a professional for the princely sum of 30 shillings a week!. Randall had to wait until the final match of that season for his Southern League debut. Deputising for the sick Billy Grassam against champions Fulham, he scored to help a ten-man Hammers team complete a remarkable double over the Cottagers by 4-1 on the 27th April 1907 at Upton Park. Infrequent appearances followed in 1907-08 and by November 1908 he had made only 12 first team appearances in three years at the club. He returned for a game at Northampton and, despite Hammers losing 6-0, retained his place. Polished displays saw him represent the Southern League five times and under his captaincy Hammers finished sixth and fourth in consecutive seasons.
Born Barking, Essex 1886.
Southern Lge apps: 189 (gls 9) Cup: 16 (gls 1).
GEORGE BUTCHER – Southern League
1913
IRISH LEAGUE
GEORGE BUTCHER (1910-1920)
George came from St. Albans City. He scored on his debut away to Watford 2nd March 1910, but was on the wrong end of a 1-2 scoreline. Managing 33 Second Division appearances during West Ham's initial Football League season of 1919-20, but played only the once in the following campaign. His weight of 11st. and height of 5ft.8ins. was just right for a nippy inside-forward, and also stood him in good stead when he became an amateur lightweight boxing champion of Hertfordshire. George left Upton Park in January 1921 for Luton Town, and had five years with the Hatters before retiring to carry on the family business of building artesian wells.
Apps: 130 (gls 17) Cup:13 (gls 5)
HERBERT ASHTON – Southern League
1915
IRISH LEAGUE
HERBERT ASHTON (1908-1915)
Herbert made his Hammers baptism in the opening game of the 1908-09 campaign against Queens Park Rangers in the 2-0 win at the Boleyn on the 1st September 1908. Scored the first of his 24 goals for the Hammers in the 4-0 win against Luton Town at Upton Park on the 26th September 1908. An ever present in the 1909-10 season and only missed one game the following season. Ashton was a diminutive winger with clever ball-control whose partnership with Danny Shea was often compared with the famous Swindon pair of Jefferson and Fleming. Only one goal in his first 27 outings that first season underlined the fact that he was not a prolific scorer but his successful efforts always received an over enthusiastic reception from the Boleyn crowd. Indeed, as far as Hammers' fans were concerned, Ashton could do no wrong, even on bad days. His final appearance in a West Ham jersey was in May 1919, in a charity game against Arsenal at Upton Park. Herbert Ashton was that relatively scarce commodity - a player who people would flock to watch.
Born: Blackburn, Lancashire 1887.
Southern Lge apps: 226 (gls 23) Cup: 25 (gls 1).
SYDNEY PUDDEFOOT - England
26th April 1919
3rd May 1919
11th October 1919
SCOTLAND Victory International at Goodison Park 2-2
SCOTLAND Victory International at Hampden Park 4-3
WALES Victory International at Ninian Park 1-2
SYD PUDDEFOOT (1913-1922 & 1932-1933)
A goalscoring legend whose sensational £5,000 transfer to Falkirk in 1922 became the most chronicled event involving an individual in the long history of West Ham United F.C. Discovered playing for London Juniors versus Surrey Juniors by manager Syd King, young Syd was brought on by Charlie Paynter and George Hilsdon and came up quickly through the ranks to become a force in the Southern League side. Made his first-team debut at home to Norwich City in a 2-1 victory on the 1st March 1913. Puddefoot was rarely out of the side and ten goals in four consecutive matches, in December and January, including three against Bristol Rovers and five in a Cup game against Chesterfield. Eventually, an ankle injury sustained in an abandoned game at Watford temporarily halted his progress. Following the disbandment of the Southern League for the duration of WW1 at the end of the 1914-15 season "Puddy" as he was affectionately known by the fans, made 126 appearances in the replacement war-time competition, the London Combination. When the Great War ended in 1918 he had his first taste of League football the following year when West Ham were elected to the enlarged Second Division. His 21 goals in 1919-20 led to his selection for three Victory Internationals for England against Scotland (2) and Wales. A further 29 tallies in 1920-21 and 19 more up to February 1922, prompted Falkirk (who Syd had guested for during the war) to make their impertinent transfer bid, which was duly accepted. After three years in Scotland, Syd moved to Blackburn Rovers. Ten years after leaving Upton Park, Syd returned like a prodigal son to help Hammers' vain fight to stay in Division One at the end of the 1931-32 season. Leaving West Ham for good after making a further 15 Second Division appearances
the next season, he later became manager of Northampton Town.
Born. Bow, London 1894.
Apps: 180 (gls 95) Cup: 14 (gls 12)
IRELAND International Friendly
IRELAND International Friendly
1923
1923
VIVIAN GIBBINS – England Amateur International
IRELAND International Friendly
SOUTH AFRICA Tour Match
IRELAND International Friendly
SCOTLAND International Friendly
IRELAND International Friendly
SCOTLAND International Friendly
WALES International Friendly
SCOTLAND International Friendly
1925
1925
1927
1927
1930
1930
1931
1931
VIVIAN GIBBINS (1923-1931)
As an amateur, he appeared in the line-up as "V.W.T. Gibbins," to distinguish him from the pros who were not then given Christian names in programme details. Like that other great West Ham United and England amateur international before him - Harry Stapley - Viv was a schoolmaster by profession and also a centre-forward for club and country. The last of the great amateurs imbued with the Corinthian spirit to serve the club, he became the first from the non-paid ranks since WW1 to head a League Club's scoring lists by topping Hammers' goalscoring charts with 18 goals in 1930-31. Making his debut against Nottingham Forest in a 1-2 reverse at the City Ground on the 15th December 1923, Viv found the pace of First Division soccer somewhat faster than that which he had experienced previously with local amateurs Clapton F.C. His
pen picture in a 1925-26 Club Handbook gives some idea of the esteem in which he was held at the Boleyn: "The name of Gibbins is a household word in London Football, and it is our great regret that he cannot assist us regularly, for we would always find a place for him." The writer of those notes must have been happy when Vivian decided to play permanently for West Ham United in 1927-28 while still retaining his amateur status, but not so pleased when his transferred to Brentford on 19 February 1932.
Born: Forest Gate, London 10/08/1901.
First Division apps: 129 (gls 58) Cup: 9 (gls 5).
WILLIAM "Billy" WILLIAMS – F.A. Touring Party
AUSTRALIAN TOUR Test Match
AUSTRALIAN TOUR Test Match
1925
1925
WILLIAM WILLIAMS (1922-1926)
Billy became the youngest ever full professional when signed for Hammers in 1921 at the age of 15 from Fairbairn House Boy's Club. A former England Boys star, he made his Hammers debut in the concluding Second Division match at Blackpool in which he also scored in a 1-3 defeat on the 6th May 1922. In March 1925 he made another entry into the record books as a member of a party which embarked on the trip to Australia. Returning home in September after several Test Matches "down under," the experiment brought the following comment from the club's 1925-26 handbook: "Has had a unique experience for so young a player, having had a glorious time in Australia since April last, where he has been finding the net frequently. We hope that continuous football has not affected his efficiency," The writer's fears may not have been altogether groundless, as Bill only made a further 14 first team outings before his transfer to Chelsea in 1927. After two years at Stamford Bridge he became a "free agent" in amateur football, and among others served Dagenham F.C. Eventually retiring at the age of 40.
Born: Leytonstone, East London.
Apps: 35 (gls 8) Cup: 9 (gls 1)
ARTHUR EVANS (1930)
Started his career with local side Barking Town in the Athenian League winning an F.A. Amateur Cup Final medal, London Senior cap and badge and an Athenian League cap and badge. In 1925 he was on two occasions picked for the Athenian League in memorable victories over the Isthmian League. After an impressive trail for England v. The Rest, Arthur became the first Barking Town player to be capped for England when he was selected for the match v. Wales at Brighton in February 1928. Said to have had an almost angelic choir-boy type appearance, this speedy right-winger came to Hammers for a season. Although he only made one First Division appearance in a disastrous 0-4 defeat at Grimsby Town 4th October 1930. In May 1933 Arthur retired and was working for the Gas Light and Coke Co. Declaring that football was a full-time job - my choice went to my job because I was married.
Born: Barking, Essex 1906.
First Division apps: 1 (gls 0).
ALBERT CADWELL – Football League
1930
IRISH LEAGUE
ALBERT CADWELL (1923-1933)
A real unsung hero who served West Ham United consistently well for ten seasons. Signed from Nunhead during Hammers' initial season in the First Division, making his debut in the London derby against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, which ended goal-less on the 20th October 1923Albert eventually took the place of that other great West Ham left-back, Jack Tresadern. Although small in stature, his superb ball control allied to his tenacious tackling and work-rate, won him a fine reputation at the highest level. Representative honours, however, were few a far between; although he did play for the Football League versus the Irish League in 1930 and was honoured by Surrey and London. Quite and unassuming, Albert was a keen motorist in his off-field moments, scored his one and only goal for West Ham against Newcastle United at St. James's Park on the 30th January 1932 in a 2-2 draw.
Born: Edmonton, London 01/11/1900.
First Division apps: 262 (gls 1) Cup: 23 (gls 0)
Second Division apps: 10 (gls 0) Cup: 2 (gls 0).
JOHN "Jackie" WOOD – England Amateur International
1938
IRELAND International Friendly
JOHN “JACKIE” WOOD (1937-1948)
Edward John "Jackie" Wood was an outstanding outside-left with an eye for scoring goals, this colourful character was also a great practical joker who along with Dick Walker and "Big Jim" Barrett, symbolised the happy spirit that existed at the Boleyn in the late forties. Jackie was connected with the club as a youngster, but as there was no youth policy in those days, he went into amateur soccer with Leytonstone - winning an England cap in the process. Having signed professional in 1937, "Jackie" made his Hammers debut in a 0-4 defeat against Manchester United at Old Trafford on the 23rd February 1938. Like so many other players of his generation Jack's career was badly disrupted by WW2 when called up with the Essex Regt. in 1939. "Timber" as he was known at the club, returned for the 1946-47 season, and made a fair total of First Team appearances in the immediate post-war years to add to the ten already gained before hostilities; although by this time he had converted to inside-forward. In October 1949 he transferred to Leyton Orient, where he made a further ten League appearances.
Born: West Ham, London 23/10/1919.
Second Division apps: 58 (gls 13) Cup: 4 (gls 2).
SOUTH AFRICA TOUR Test Match
SOUTH AFRICA TOUR Test Match
SOUTH AFRICA TOUR Test Match
WALES War Time International at Ninian Park 1-1
SWITZERLAND Unofficial “B” International in Zurich 3-0
1939
1939
1939
11th Nov 1939
24th July 1945
EDWARD FENTON (1932-1946)
Ted joined West Ham as a youngster and one of his earliest memories of Upton Park was being sent to fetch beer for manager Syd King. He made his League debut for Hammers in a 1-5 away defeat at the hands of Bradford City on the 7th September 1932, he was on the losing side five times in six outings, but his second season was more successful with six appearances on the winning side and a hat-trick against Bury. He played regularly right up to the outbreak of World War Two, during which he served as a PT instructor with the army in North Africa and Burma. When the war was over Fenton became manager of Colchester United, who were then a Southern League club, and he brought that club national fame when he steered them to the fifth round F.A. Cup where they were beaten by First Division Blackpool. Shortly afterwards he was enticed back to Upton Park.
Born: Forest Gate, London 07/11/1914.
Second Division apps: 163 (gls 13) Cup: 13 (gls 0).
ARCHIBALD MACAULEY – Combined Services / Scotland
IRELAND FA War Time Tour Match in Belfast 8-4
9th September 1944
Whilst not strictly a "War Time" international, listed for reference
ARCHIBALD MACAULAY (1937-1946)
Charlie Paynter signed this volatile Scot from Glasgow Rangers, and he soon made his presence felt at the Boleyn Ground. Archie made his Hammers debut in the opening fixture against Aston Villa at Villa Park in a 0-2 defeat on the 28th August 1937. Like so many other players of this period. Archie had his career interrupted by the war, although he did win a Football War Cup medal in 1940. After he had seen service with the Essex Regiment Territorials and hostilities had ceased, the former Sergeant-Major PTI, found it difficult to settle, and was transferred to the then more glamorous Brentford in the First Division. He then moved on to Arsenal, winning a string of Scottish caps and playing for Great Britain v The Rest of the World in 1947. Archie finished his playing days with Fulham, later going into management, first with Guildford and then guiding Norwich City to the F.A. Cup Semi-Finals when they were still a Third Division club in 1959; he was one of the first managers to implement the 4-3-3 system and generally regarded as being tactically ahead of his time. After leaving the Canaries he joined Scottish First Division club Dundee in an administrative capacity and was connected with Liverpool F.C. in 1970. Later taking charge of West Bromwich Albion and Brighton and Hove Albion respectively before retiring from the game.
Born: Falkirk, Scotland 30/07/1915.
Second Division apps: 83 (gls 29) Cup: 7 (gls 2)
13 March 1947
KEN BAINBRIDGE – British Army
13th March 1947
FRENCH ARMY in Paris 2-2
KEN BAINBRIDGE (1946-1950)
A prominent member of Hammers senior side in the immediate post-war period, made his initial Hammers debut in the claret-and-blue in a 6-0 thrashing of Arsenal at Upton Park in an F.A. Cup match on the 5th January 1946. Ken's League debut was against Millwall at the Boleyn in a 3-1 victory, which was gained over the south of the river visitors on the 21st September 1946. This speedy winger was a handful for his opponents and not averse to having a crack at goal. His scoring exploits became even more pronounced when transferred to Reading and later Southend United, where he ended his League career.
Born: Barking, Essex 15/01/1921.
Second Division apps: 80 (gls 16) Cup: 4 (gls 1).
SCOTTISH LEAGUE Inter League Friendly in Glasgow 1-1
ANDY MALCOLM (1953-1961)
Feared by leading inside-forwards of his day because of his ability to close-mark and blot his opponents out of the game. Jimmy Greaves, Johnny Haynes and Dennis Law all gave testimony to his prowess. Made his Hammers debut in the Essex Professional Cup a 1-5 thrashing by Colchester United at Layer Road on the 22nd October 1953, his League debut followed two months later also a defeat, this time going down 1-2 at the hands of Notts County at Upton Park on the 5th December 1953. A tough-tackling, unassuming character, Andy must rank as one of the finest wing-halves the club ever employed. Transferred to Chelsea for £11,000 plus Ron Tindall in part-exchange; the latter was sold to Reading for £12,000 - so the deal eventually realised £23,000 profit for the club. Andy served the West Londoners well before moving on to Queens Park Rangers, and also had a spell playing in South Africa with Port Elizabeth.
Born: Upton Park, London 04/05/1933.
Apps: 283 (gls 4) Cup: 38 (gls 0)
ERIC PARSONS - England "B" Internationals
FINLAND International Friendly in Helsinki 4-0
HOLLAND International Friendly in Amsterdam 4-0
15th May 1949
18th May 1949
ERIC PARSONS (1947-1950)
Signed as a junior for Hammers. Given the affectionate nickname of "Rabbit" by the Upton Park patrons, for the way he used to hare down the touchlines, made his West Ham debut in the 0-4 defeat against Leicester City at Filbert Street on the 4th January 1947, this flying outside-right was sold to London rivals Chelsea in November 1950 for £23,000 - a huge fee for those days. An ever-present member of the Pensioners' First Division Championship side of 1954-55, he later moved to Brentford where he pushed his total League appearances to over the 400 mark, despite sustaining a broken leg while at Griffin Park. He set up a successful sign-writing business when he retired from playing.
Born: Worthing, Sussex 09/11/1923.
Second Division apps: 145 (gls 34) Cup: 6 (gls 1).
ERNIE GREGORY – England "B" Internationals
FRANCE International Friendly in La Harve 1-7
22nd May 1952
ERNIE GREGORY (1946-1959)
Ernie actually joined the ground-staff in 1936, one year before that other great club servant, Eddie Chapman. Catching the attention of Charlie Paynter when he appeared for the West Ham Boys team which met Preston in the English Trophy Final at the Boleyn Ground, it proved to be the beginning of an association that lasted a record-breaking 50 years. Although this great goalkeeper first appeared for Hammers in their Mid-week League team in 1938, it was another eight years before he made his League debut due to serving in the Essex Regt. and R.A. during WW2, against Plymouth Argyle in a 4-1 victory at Upton Park on the 28th December 1946. A regular member of the 1958 promotion side, he received the Football League Long-service statuette when he retired from playing in 1960. He then became coach to the Reserves and later the First-team, specialising in the arts of goalkeeping. Also helped with general coaching and team administrator. Ernie received a special award for 50 years service.
Born: Stratford, London 10/11/1921.
Apps: 382 Cup: 40.
DEREK PARKER – F.A. Touring Party
Australian Tour - Test match
Australian Tour - Test match
Australian Tour - Test match
1952
1952
1952
DEREK PARKER (1946-1956)
This popular player just failed to qualify for the exclusive "200 club," with Hammers, his appearances in the claret and blue adding up to 199 in the League. Made his Hammers debut in the 3-1 victory over London rivals Millwall at Upton Park on the 21st September 1946. Originally an inside-forward but later converted to half-back, he also made over 250 Combination appearances for the reserves. Derek returned to his home town in March 1957 to play for Colchester United when Ben Fenton (then manager at United) persuaded his brother Ted to release him to assist in the Essex club's eventually unsuccessful promotion drive from the old Third Division South. Derek went on to make 130 League appearances at Layer Road.
Born: Colchester, Essex 23/06/1926.
Second Division apps: 199 (gls 9) Cup: 8 (gls 0).
HARRY HOOPER - England "B" Internationals
SCOTLAND International Friendly at Roker Park 1-1
WEST GERMANY International Friendly in Gelsenkirchen 4-0
YUGOSLAVIA International Friendly in Ljubjana 1-2
SWITZERLAND International Friendly in Basle 0-2
WEST GERMANY International Friendly at Hillsborough 1-1
3rd March 1954
24th March 1954
16th May 1954
22nd May 1954
23rd March 1955
Football League
1954
1955
IRISH LEAGUE
SCOTTISH LEAGUE
England Under-23
ITALY International Friendly at Stamford Bridge 1-1
SCOTLAND International Friendly at Shawfield Park 6-0
ENGLAND (over 30)International Friendly (Unofficial) at Highbury 0-5
19th January 1955
8th February 1955
6th May 1955
HARRY HOOPER (1951-1956)
Dashing, goalscoring winger from Hylton Colliery, who was the star attraction at the Boleyn during his reign; made his Hammers debut in the 4-2 victory over Barnsley at Upton Park on the 3rd February 1951. Whilst with Hammers he represented the Football League against the Irish League (1954) and the Scottish League (1955). When Wolverhampton Wanderers came dangling an open cheque book, there was little the club could do to stop their England Under-23 international from joining the then most famous club in the land for £25,000. However, the game turned sour on him at Molineux and he soon moved on to Birmingham City (there too, meeting with only moderate success). One wonders in retrospect, whether he'd have been better off staying with the "Homely Hammers".
Born: Pittingdon, County Durham 14/06/1933.
Signed from: Hylton Colliery
Second Division apps: 119 (gls 39) Cup: 11 (gls 5).
IRISH LEAGUE Inter League Friendly in Belfast
SCOTTISH LEAGUE Inter League Friendly in Glasgow 1-1
JOHN BOND (1952-1965)
Played for North East Essex Schools and Essex Army Cadets before joining as an amateur from Colchester Casuals in 1950. John made his League debut against Coventry City in a 2-1 victory at Highfield Road on the 9th February 1952. A great "character" and his consistent form earned him a late selection to tour South Africa with the F.A. party in 1956. His play there indicated possibilities of further honours; unfortunately an injury curtailed the tour and was forced to return to England for treatment. First class full-back Penalty expert and dead-ball kicker, he was a member of the Second Division Championship winning team of 1957-58 and the F.A. Cup winning side of 1964. Transferred to Torquay United from West Ham in 1965, he afterwards managed AFC Bournemouth, Norwich City, Manchester City and Burnley. John afterwards became manager of Swansea City, but following the Swan's domestic problems he took over at St. Andrew's with Birmingham City, and later Shrewsbury Town.
Born: Colchester, Essex. 17/12/1932.
Apps 381 (gls 32) Cup: 67 (gls 6)
TERRY McDONALD – England Youth
1956
HUNGARY
JOHN SMITH – England Youth
1956
HUNGARY
England Under-23
FRANCE International Friendly at Roker Park 2-0
11th November 1959
JOHN SMITH (1956-1960)
One of the club's finest discoveries, plain John Smith was a major influence during the promotion season of 1958; the far from ordinary skills he exhibited that campaign will be long remembered at Upton Park. Joining the ground-staff in 1954 and signing full pro two years later, after he had won honours with East London, Middlesex and London Schoolboys, he went on to win England Youth and Under-23 caps while with Hammers. Making his Hammers debut in the 0-0 draw with Port Vale at Vale Park on the 15th September 1956. On the verge of full England international honours (he was twice named as reserve during 1959-60), his career took a downward spiral after he was involved in an exchange deal with Dave Dunmore of Tottenham. Never able to win a regular place at White Hart Lane, he played out the remainder of his career in the lower divisions with Coventry City, Leyton Orient, Torquay, Swindon Town (where he won a League Cup Winners medal in 1969) and finally Walsall.
Born: Shoreditch, London 04/01/1939.
Apps: 125 (gls 20) Cup: 8 (gls 2).
JOHN LYALL – England Under-23
2nd February 1957
7th November 1957
LUXEMBOURG International Friendly at Upton Park 7-1
LUXEMBOURG International Friendly in Luxembourg 3-0
JOHN LYALL (1960-1963)
A solid, capable full-back who had won England Youth honours, John had an unusual beginning to a career beset with injury problems. Like Secretary Eddie Chapman before him, the young Hammer doubled as office-boy cum-apprentice professional. It was a grounding to stand him in good stead in the years ahead. A member of the F.A. Youth Cup in 1957, he made his League debut against Chelsea in a 4-2 victory at Upton Park on the 6th February 1960. Then followed a three-year fight against persistent injuries, during which time he first showed the qualities of character, now so well known. Finally succumbing to defeat, he was given a testimonial match on the eve of the F.A. Cup Final, and then began his long haul up the managerial ladder.
Born. Ilford, Essex 24/02/1940.
First Division apps: 31 (gls 0) Cup: 4 (gls 0)
JOHNNY CARTWRIGHT – England Under-23
2nd February 1957
7th November 1957
LUXEMBOURG International Friendly at Upton Park 7-1
LUXEMBOURG International Friendly in Luxembourg 3-0
JOHNNY CARTWRIGHT (1959-1961)
Johnny made his initial Hammers debut in the Southern Floodlit Cup against Charlton Athletic at Upton Park in a 5-1 victory on the 27th October 1958 which ended in a 5-1 victory, made his League bow in the 1-0 victory over Everton at Upton Park a year later, 17th October 1959. Vastly talented inside-forward whose first-team opportunities were limited by the signing of Welsh international Phil Woosnam and the emergence of Ron Boyce. His subsequent transfer to Crystal Palace bore little success, and later played for Bath City and Wimbledon in the Southern League. He later made a name for himself as manager of the England Youth team and coaching in Kuwait. Became assistant manager of Arsenal in March 1985, but resigned together with the Arsenal Don Howe in March 1986.
Born: Northampton 05/11/1940.
First Division apps: 4 (gls 0) Cup: 4 (gls 3)
BILLY NEVILLE – Republic of Ireland "B" Internationals
1957
RUMANIA
BILLY NEVILLE (1957)
Eire-born centre-forward who played for Wembley Town before graduating through the reserve ranks to First Team contention in the 1957-58 campaign, when he played three Second Division matches in the promotion year. Making his initial senior appearance against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane in a 1-2 defeat on the 16th September 1957. Bill was forced to give up the game he loved on doctor's advice following continued illness.
Born: Cork, Eire 15/05/1935.
Second Division apps: 3 (gls 0).
JOE KIRKUP – England Youth
1957
IRELAND
England Under-23
ISRAEL International Friendly at Elland Road 7-1
HOLLAND International Friendly in Rotterdam 5-2
TURKEY International Friendly at Southampton 4-1
9th November 1961
29th November 1961
22nd March 1962
JOE KIRKUP (1958-1966)
A Constructive, resourceful full-back, this popular North Easterner was a product of the club's ground staff and signed professional when he was 17. Made his initial debut against Southend United at Upton Park in the Semi-Final of the Essex Pro Cup in which Hammers won 2-1 on the 10th March 1958, made his Football League debut against Manchester City at Maine Road in a 1-3 reverse 13th December 1958. His highlight whilst a Hammers must have been playing at Wembley in the 1965 European Cup Winners' Cup Final v. TSV Munich which the Hammers won 2-0. He transferred across London to Chelsea for £27,000 and later served Southampton.
Born: Hexham, Northumberland 17/12/1939.
First Division apps: 165 (gls 6) Cup: 25 (gls 0).
2nd October 1957
13th November 1957
17th November 1957
4th February 1958
15th February 1958
1st March 1958
4th Mar ch1958
12th March 1958
22nd March 1958
5th April 1958
7th April 1958
9th April 1958
11th April 1958
13th April 1958
10th May 1958
26th May 1958
1st June 1858
8th October 1958
HOLLAND International Friendly in Amsterdam 3-2
BELGIUM International Friendly at Hillsborough 2-0
LUXEMBOURG International Friendly in Luxembourg 3-0
YUGOSLAVIA International Friendly at Stamford Bridge 2-2
WALES International Youth Championship at Elm Park 8-2
SCOTLAND International Youth Championship at Boothferry Park 2-0
AUSTRIA International Friendly at Highbury 3-2
WEST GERMANY International Friendly at Burnden Park 1-2
FRANCE International Friendly at Eastbourne 0-1
SPAIN International Youth Tournament in Saarbrucken 2-2
EAST GERMANY International Youth Tournament in Neunkirchen 1-0
LUXEMBOURG International Youth Tournament in Esch sur Alzette 5-0
ROMANIA International Youth Tournament Semi-Final in Luxembourg 1-0
ITALY International Youth Tournament Final in Luxembourg 0-1
IRELAND International Youth Championship in Bangor 2-4
SWITZERLAND International Friendly in Zurich 3-0
AUSTRIA International Friendly in Graz 4-3
SPAIN International Friendly in Madrid 4-2
England Under-23
VEIJE BK (DENMARK) International Friendly (Unofficial) at Maine Road 5-1
ITALY International Friendly at St James’ Park 1-1
WALES International Friendly at Goodison Park 2-0
SCOTLAND International Friendly at Ayresome Park 0-1
WEST GERMANY International Friendly at White Hart Lane 4-1
ISRAEL International Friendly at Elland Road 7-1
HOLLAND International Friendly in Rotterdam 5-2
SCOTLAND International Friendly at Aberdeen 4-2
TURKEY International Friendly at Southampton 4-1
21st September 1960
2nd November 1960
8th February 1961
1st March 1961
15th March 1961
9th November 1961
29th November 1961
28th February 1962
22nd March 1962
Football League
1962
1962
1963
1964
1967
1967
1968
IRISH LEAGUE
ITAILIAN LEAGUE
LEAGUE of IRELAND
SCOTTISH LEAGUE
BELGIUM LEAGUE
LEAGUE of IRELAND
SCOTTISH LEAGUE
TONY SCOTT - England Youth
17th November 1957
4th February 1958
15th February 1958
1st March 1958
4th March 1958
12th March 1958
5th April 1958
7th April 1958
9th April 1958
11th April 1958
13th April 1958
8th October 1958
LUXEMBOURG International Friendly in Luxembourg 3-0
YUGOSLAVIA International Friendly at Stamford Bridge 2-2
WALES International Youth Championship at Elm Park 8-2
SCOTLAND International Youth Championship at Boothferry Park 2-0
AUSTRIA International Friendly at Highbury 3-2
WEST GERMANY International Friendly at Burnden Park 1-2
SPAIN International Youth Tournament in Saarbrucken 2-2
EAST GERMANY International Youth Tournament in Neunkirchen 1-0
LUXEMBOURG International Youth Tournament in Esch sur Alzette 5-0
ROMANIA International Youth Tournament Semi-Final in Luxembourg 1-0
ITALY International Youth Tournament Final in Luxembourg 0-1
SPAIN International Friendly in Madrid 4-2
TONY SCOTT (1960-1965)
An orthodox right-winger with a penchant for scoring goals. North London born, he escaped the Tottenham scouting net to join the Upton Park ground-staff in 1957; quickly making his way through the junior ranks and 12 appearances for England Youth. Had his League debut v Chelsea
at Upton Park along with John Lyall in a 4-2 victory on the 6th February 1960, and going on to make over 80 senior appearances before transferring to Aston Villa for £25,000 and renewing his right-wing partnership with Phil Woosnam at Villa Park.
Born. Edmonton, London 01/04/1941.
First Division apps: 83 (gls 16) Cup: 14 (gls 3)
PETER READER - England Youth
AUSTRIA International Friendly in Graz 4-3
FRANCE International Friendly at Eastbourne 0-1
EAST GERMANY International Youth Tournament in Neunkirchen 1-0
LUXEMBOURG International Youth Tournament in Esch sur Alzette 5-0
ROMANIA International Youth Tournament Semi-Final in Luxembourg 1-0
IRELAND International Youth Championship in Bangor 2-4
SWITZERLAND International Friendly in Zurich 3-0
ITALY
WALES
SCOTLAND
Youth Tournament?
4th March 1958
22nd March 1958
7th April 1958
9th April 1958
11th April 1958
10th May 1958
26th May 1958
1958
1959
1959
1959
ANDY SMILLIE – England Youth
IRELAND International Youth Championship in Bangor 2-4
AUSTRIA International Friendly in Graz 4-3
SPAIN International Friendly in Madrid 4-2
10th May 1958
1st June 1858
8th October 1958
ANDY SMILLIE (1958-1961)
A skilful, ball-playing inside-forward who had won a host of representative honours with Ilford, London and England Schoolboys before joining the Upton Park ground-staff in 1956. Signed pro in 1958 after adding three England Youth caps to his earlier honours; he made his initial debut along with Joe Kirkup in the Semi-Final of the Essex Pro Cup against Southend United in a 2-1 victory on the 10th March 1958, his First Division debut on Boxing Day of the same year against Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane in a 4-1 win. Andy refused the terms offered him for 1961-62, and was subsequently transferred to Crystal Palace where he joined up with fellow ex-Hammer John Cartwright, Alf Noakes and George Petchey, and also Hammer-to-be Johnny Byrne. He later had spells with Scunthorpe and Southend before ending his League career with Gillingham.
Born: Ilford, Essex 15/03/1941.
Apps: 20 (gls 3) Cup: 7 (gls 2)
WALES
SCOTLAND
EAST GERMANY Youth Tournament
ITALY Youth Tournament
ROMANIA Youth Tournament
GREECE Youth Tournament
1959
1959
1959
1959
1959
1959
England Under-23 (4 caps)
13th November 1963
8th April 1964
17th May 1964
20th May 1964
WALES International Friendly at Ashton Gate 1-1
FRANCE International Friendly in Rouen 2-2
ISRAEL International Friendly in Tel Aviv 4-0
TURKEY International Friendly in Istanbul 0-3
Football League
1966
1966
1967
1967
1968
1968
1971
1972
LEAGUE of IRELAND
LEAGUE of IRELAND
SCOTTISH LEAGUE
BELGIUM LEAGUE
SCOTTISH LEAGUE
IRISH LEAGUE
SCOTTISH LEAGUE
SCOTTISH LEAGUE
DEREK WOODLEY – England Youth
WALES
SCOTLAND
WEST GERMANY
Youth Tournament
Youth Tournament
Youth Tournament
1959
1959
1959
1959
1959
1959
DEREK WOODLEY (1959-1962)
An extremely fast flankman who had won England Schools honours before joining Hammers. While on the ground-staff he added six England Youth caps and an F.A. Youth Cup runners-up medal to his earlier triumphs and looked set for a big future. Two goals on his League debut against Luton Town in a 3-1 victory at Upton Park on the 10th October 1959, did little to dispel that view and it was something of a surprise when he eventually left Upton Park. Former Hammers' manager Ted Fenton swooped on the eve of the 1962-63 season to take Derek and his colleague Mick Beesley to Southend United in a dual transfer. Derek left the Shrimpers (after serving them well) for Charlton Athletic in 1967, only to return to Roots Hall four months later. He finally finished his League career at Gillingham in 1970.
Born. Isleworth, Middlesex 02/03/1942.
First Division apps: 12 (gls 3) Cup: 3 (gls 0)
RON BOYCE – England Youth
EAST GERMANY
NORTHERN IRELAND
BULGARIA Tournament in Austria 0-1
POLAND Tournament in Austria 4-2
AUSTRIA Tournament in Austria 0-1
WEST GERMANY Tournament in Austria ?-?
SWITZERLAND International Friendly at Brisbane Road 4-3
19??
14th May 1960
?? 1960
?? 1960
?? 1960
?? 1960
8th October 1960
RON BOYCE (1959-1972)
Workhorse of the successful cup sides of the mid-sixties. Guaranteed himself a place in Upton Park folk-lore with his two goals against Manchester United in the 1964 Semi-Final at Hillsborough and his Wembley winner against Preston North End; opposing whom he also made his League debut at the age of 17, on the 22nd October 1960 in a 5-2 victory at Upton Park, his initial First Team appearance being against Millwall in the Southern Floodlit Cup a year earlier on the 13th October 1959. Played schoolboy soccer for East Ham, London, Essex and England, and also won England Youth honours. "Ticker" had a well earned Testimonial game against Manchester United in 1972. After retiring from playing he was kept on the West Ham payroll in a coaching capacity and later as chief scout.
Born. East Ham, London 06/01/1943.
First Division apps: 275/7 (gls 21) Cup: 58/1 (gls 8).
27th February 1960
19th March 1960
2nd April 1960
14th May 1960
?? ?? 1960
?? ?? 1960
?? ?? 1960
8th October 1960
31st January 1962
31st March 1962
20th May 1962
22nd May 1962
SCOTLAND International Friendly St James’ Park 1-1
WALES International Friendly Canterbury 1-1
WEST GERMANY International Friendly Fratton Park 1-1
NORTHERN IRELAND International Friendly in Belfast 5-2
BULGARIA Tournament ?? in Austria 0-1
POLAND Tournament ?? in Austria 4-2
AUSTRIA Tournament ?? in Austria 0-1
SWITZERLAND International Friendly Brisbane Road 4-3
HOLLAND International Friendly Goldstone Ground 4-3
WEST GERMANY International Friendly in Northampton 1-0
ISRAEL International Friendly in Tel Aviv 3-1
ISRAEL International Friendly in Haifa 1-2
England Under-23 (5 caps)
7th November 1962
28th November 1962
13th November 1963
27th November 1963
20th April 1966
BELGIUM International Friendly Home Park 6-1
GREECE International Friendly St Andrews 5-0
WALES International Friendly Ashton Gate 1-1
WEST GERMANY International Friendly Anfield 4-1
TURKEY International Friendly Ewood Park 2-1
Football League
LEAGUE of IRELAND in Dublin 1-2
IRISH LEAGUE at Plymouth 12-0
BELGIUM LEAGUE in Brussels 2-2
SCOTTISH LEAGUE at Middlesbrough 2-0
SCOTTISH LEAGUE at Coventry 3-2
2nd October 1963
21st September 1966
27th September 1967
20th March 1968
18th March 1970
DAVE BICKLES (1963-1967)
Tall, commanding pivot. First blooded in the senior side during the American Soccer League Tournament in 1963, he made his initial League appearance on the 14th September of that same year against Liverpool at Anfield in a 2-1 victory. Transferred to Crystal Palace in October 1967, he later had a spell with Colchester United before becoming player-manager of the now defunct Romford F.C. in the Southern League, he was managing Havering side Collier Row, in the Spartan League in the 1982-83 season.
Born. West Ham 06/04/1944.
First Division apps: 24/1 (gls 0) Cup: 3 (gls 0)
SWITZERLAND
SWITZERLAND
SWITZERLAND
HOLLAND
RUMANIA
SCOTLAND
NORTHERN IRELAND
POLAND
REPUBLIC of IRELAND
AUSTRIA
CZECHOSLOVAKIA
SPAIN
JOHN SISSONS (1963-1970)
Became the youngest player to score in an F.A. Cup Final at Wembley in 1964. His career looked certain to rocket into the international arena the following year when he returned to the twin towers as a vital part of Hammers' victorious European Cup Winners' Cup side; but despite gaining ten England Under-23 appearances, Johnny never won a full cap. Originally an inside-left in his formative years with Middlesex and England Schoolboys, he was successfully converted to outside-left by Ron Greenwood after making his senior debut against Blackburn Rovers at Upton Park in May 1963. One of the most-feared wingers in the League when on song, his form inexplicably waned towards the end of his time at the Boleyn. Transferred to Sheffield Wednesday, he made 115 League appearances for the Hillsborough club before moving on again to join forces with his former team-mate John Bond at Norwich. He managed only 17 games for the Canaries, however, and ended his League days with Chelsea, making a further 10 outings in the 1974-75 campaign.
Born. Hayes, Middlesex 30/09/1945.
First Division apps: 210/3 (gls 37) Cup: 53 (gls 16)
England Under-23
WALES International Friendly Wrexham 2-3
SCOTLAND International Friendly Aberdeen 0-0
WALES International Friendly Molineux 8-0
HUNGARY International Friendly Budapest 0-1
WEST GERMANY International Friendly Kasseel 1-0
WALES International Friendly Wrexham 3-1
PORTUGAL International Friendly Highfield Road 4-0
HOLLAND International Friendly Deventer 1-2
BELGIUM International Friendly Ostend 1-0
PORTUGAL International Friendly Funchal 1-1
4th November 1964
24th February 1965
12th October 1966
30th May 1968
3rd June 1968
2nd October 1968
16th April 1969
22nd May 1969
25th May 1969
28th May 1968
MARTIN BRITT - England Youth
1963
1963
1963
SWITZERLAND
SWITZERLAND
RUSSIA
MARTIN BRITT (1963-1966)
A former England Youth international who had been apprenticed in July 1966, this centre-forward found the competition for places in the free-scoring West Ham attack of the mid-sixties a stumbling block for his advancement. An indication of his potential can be found in his transfer to Blackburn Rovers, who splashed out £25,000 to take him to Ewood Park. His career was prematurely cut short by injury after only six appearances for Rovers - against whom he had made his Hammers debut on the 4th May 1963 in a 0-1 reverse in a game which also saw John Sissons and John Charles make there debuts.
Born. Leigh-on-Sea, Essex.
First Division apps: 20 (gls 6) Cup: 6 (gls 1)
JOHN CHARLES - England Youth
1963
RUSSIA
JOHN CHARLES (1963-1969)
One of the first black players to really "break-through" in London Soccer, "Charlo", as he was affectionately known, was a good full-back and always strove to live up to one of the most famous names in football! He captained the West Ham Youth Cup-winning side of 1963, won England Youth honours and made his League debut along with Martin Britt and Johnny Sissons against Blackburn Rovers at Upton Park, a 0-1 defeat on the 4th May 1963. John had to wait until March 1965 before making another Football League appearance - in a 4-0 defeat against Blackburn at Ewood Park! He had, however previously played in two League Cup ties versus Swindon Town in 1963-64. It wasn't until the 1965-66 season that he finally established himself in the side, scoring his first goal in a League Cup tie at Grimsby, appearing in 25 First Division matches and playing in both legs of Hammers' unsuccessful European Cup Winners' Cup Semi-Final clash with Borussia Dortmund. After missing almost the whole of the 1969-70 campaign through injury, John shocked the Hammers faithful with his decision to quit football and join his father-in-law as a greengrocer.
Born. Canning Town, London 20/09/1944.
First Division apps 117/1 (gls 1) Cup: 24 (gls 1)
TREVOR DAWKINS - England Youth
1964
POLAND
TREVOR DAWKINS (1965-1966)
Great things were expected of this highly-talented and creative wing-half by his manager and mentor, Ron Greenwood, but the player failed to win a regular place in the First Team. Made his Hammers debut at the Hawthorns against West Bromwich Albion on the 19th April 1965 in a 2-4 defeat. Transferred to Crystal Palace, where he met up with fellow ex-Hammer Dave Bickles and Eddie Presland, he ended his League life at Brentford.
Born. Rochford, Essex 07/10/1945.
First Division apps: 5/1 (gls 0)
HARRY REDKNAPP - England Youth
SPAIN
POLAND
REPUBLIC of IRELAND
AUSTRIA
CZECHOSLOVAKIA
SPAIN
1964
1964
1964
1964
1964
1964
HARRY REDKNAPP (1965-1972)
A "Chicken-Run" favourite who combined old-fashioned wing play with his own particular brand of artistry to win over the fans. Although not always a First Team regular, "Arry-Boy" was a popular choice with the Upton Park faithful. A former England Youth international, he was a member of the Hammers' sides which lifted the F.A. and London Youth Cups in 1963. Signing professional forms in March 1964, he made his senior debut in August the following year against Sunderland in a 1-1 draw at Upton Park on the 23rd August 1965. The nearest Harry came to winning a major honour was as a member of the Hammers' team that featured in the League Cup Semi-Final marathon with Stoke City in 1972, failing by a whisker to reach Wembley. Transferred to AFC Bournemouth in August the same year, he had a short spell with Brentford before retiring from League football in 1976
SWITZERLAND International Friendly at Portman Road
EAST GERMANY International Friendly at Bristol 0-1
POLAND International Friendly in Warsaw 3-0
RUSSIA International Friendly in Kiev 0-0
24th November 1971
1972
1972
1972
FRANK LAMPARD (1967-1985)
Signed apprentice forms in 1964 and full professional a year later, Frank made his League debut against Manchester City at Upton Park on the 18th November 1967 in a 2-3 defeat; six months and 19 senior outings later he suffered the first of two set-backs in his career...breaking a leg against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane. Slowly, and with a great deal of sweat and toil, he recovered to regain his confidence and with it his First Team place. International recognition followed with Under-23 appearances and a full cap against Yugoslavia in October 1972 to add to his Youth caps already gained. Frank was a member of the side which beat Fulham in the 1975 F.A. Cup Final at Wembley. The eventually resultant European Cup Winners' Cup Final in Brussels against Anderlecht the following year brought about the biggest disappointment of his soccer life. Frank went to play a ball that 99 times out of a 100 he would have got it back to 'keeper Mervyn Day...but on this occasion his studs caught in the turf, causing him to sustain an excruciating stomach injury. To make matters worse the Belgians scored from the incident and went on to win 4-2. Once again he fought back to fitness. An F.A. Cup Final victory over Arsenal in 1980. League Cup Runners-up and Second Division Championship medals followed in 1981. Frank was awarded a free transfer after playing in the final fixture of 1984-85 against Liverpool.
Born. East Ham, London 20/09/1948.
Apps: 536/5 (gls 18) Cup: 119 (gls 4)
SCOTLAND
WEST GERMANY
WEST GERMANY
ITALY
SPAIN
YUGOSLAVIA
England Under-23
24th November 1968
SWITZERLAND International Friendly at Portman Road 1-1
TREVOR BROOKING (1967-1984)
Would be rated among the true "greats" in any Upton Park "Hall of Fame." Signed apprentice forms in May 1996, making his initial appearance against Burnley at Turf Moor on the 29th August 1967 in a trilling 3-3 draw. Had to wait eight years to win a major honour with his club, leading them with his unique midfield skills to victory in the 1975 F.A. Cup Final. After collecting a runners-up medal in the European Cup Winners' Cup Final the following year, he was back at Wembley scoring the winner with a rare header against Arsenal in 1980. Proved his world-class status during his countries World Cup qualifying match with Hungary in Budapest, scoring the match winning goals so vital in taking England to Spain in 1982. Missed most of 1982-83 season due to recurring injury problems, but returned in 1983-84 for his final season. Became a Radio and Television pundit after retiring from the game. Later became the Director of Football to the Football Association.
Born. Barking, Essex 2/10/1948.
League apps: 521/7 (gls 88) Cup: 106/1 (gls 14)
PETER BRAGGER – England Amateur
1967
1967
1967
1967
SCOTLAND
NORTHERN IRELAND
WALES
REPUBLIC OF IRELAND
JIMMY LINDSAY – Scotland Youth
1967
ENGLAND
JIMMY LINDSAY (1968-1970)
A scheming midfield motivator, plucked from Scottish junior football where he had gained considerable respect playing for Glasgow Boys. Signed professional forms in the summer of 1966, he won a Scottish Youth cap the following year and made his First Division appearance as substitute v. Burnley at Turf Moor on the 8th October 1968 in a game which West Ham lost 1-3. Transferred to Watford in 1971, Jimmy later went on to play for Colchester United, Hereford United and Shrewsbury Town.
Born. Hamilton, Scotland 12/07/1949.
First Division apps: 36/3 (gls 2) Cup: 6 (gls 0)
ALAN STEPHENSON – England Under-23
1st May 1968
25th May 1968
30th May 1968
3rd June 1968
24th May 1971
HUNGARY International Friendly at Goodison Park 4-0
ITALY International Friendly in Trieste 1-1
HUNGARY International Friendly in Budapest 0-1
WEST GERMANY International Friendly in Kasseeel 1-0
REPUBLIC of IRELAND Jubilee Year of the F.A. of Ireland at Lansdowne Road 1-1
F.A. Touring Party to Australia
(No details of matches)
ALAN STEPHENSON (1968-1972)
A costly acquisition from Crystal Palace who tried in vain to make the number five shirt his own. Despite an impressive pedigree which included seven England Under-23 caps, he largely failed to solve the problems at the heart of Hammers' defence which had prevailed from the time of Ken Brown's departure. Nevertheless, he still managed over a hundred senior appearances and never lacked endeavour. Made his Hammers debut in the 0-0 draw against Southampton at The Dell on the 16th March 1968. After a period on loan to Fulham during which he played 10 times for the Cottagers in 1971-72, he was eventually transferred in the close-season to Portsmouth, where he logged another 100 senior outings up to 1974.
Born. Chesham, Buckinghamshire 26/09/1944.
BILLY BONDS - England Under-23
WALES International Friendly at Wrexham 3-1
HOLLAND International Friendly in Birmingham 2-2
2nd October 1968
13th November 1968
BILLY BONDS 1967-1988)
Captain courageous. Shattered Bobby Moore's long standing appearance record in 1982-83 season, and looks set to hold it for all-time. Played 95 League games for Charlton Athletic before his transfer to Hammers for £49,500 on May 13th 1967, made his Hammers debut along with Bobby Ferguson and John Cushley against Sheffield Wednesday at Upton Park in a 2-3 reverse on the 19th August 1967. "Bonzo" was made club captain in 1973, he came back into the side after experiencing injury problems during 1983-84, and played a vital role in Hammers' relegation fight in 84-85. He did a similar thing in the 1986-87 season after missing all of the 1985-86 season, the season the Hammers finished a best ever third position in the League. Billy was put in charge of the Youth team after his playing days were up, and was elevated to managers position with the shock resignation of Lou Macari in February 1990. "Bonzo's" honours include 2 England Under-23 caps, F.A. Cup Winners medals in 1975 and 1980, European Cup Winners Cup runners-up medal 1976, Football League Cup runners-up medal 1981, "Hammer of the Year" 1971, 1974, 1975 and 1988.
CLIVE CHARLES - England Youth
NORTHERN IRELAND
NORTHERN IRELAND
WALES
YUGOSLAVIA European Youth Tournament in Czechoslovakia
1970
1970
1970
1971
CLIVE CHARLES (1972-1973)
Younger brother of the more famous Hammer John, Charles junior was a most accomplished full-back and a valued member of the Upton Park playing staff in the early seventies. Making his debut against Coventry City at Highfield Road in a 1-1 draw on the 21st March 1972. Clive was never able to call a First-team place his own owing to the fine form of Frank Lampard and John McDowell. The signing of Keith Coleman from Sunderland limited his prospects even further and he subsequently transferred to Cardiff City in 1974 playing 77 games and scoring 2 goals for the Bluebirds, before his contract was purchased by the Portland Timbers of the North American Soccer League. Besides the Timbers, who he played with for four seasons (1978-81), Charles' NASL experience also included stints with the Montreal Olympics and Pittsburgh Spirit. He was a three-time NASL All-Star and was selected to the all-time NASL Team by the legendary Pele. Charles ended his pro career in 1982 with the Los Angeles Lazers of the Major Indoor Soccer League.
MICKY FRENCH – England Youth
SCOTLAND International Friendly in Greenock Morton 1-2
30th January 1971
LEN RANDS – England Youth
SCOTLAND International Friendly in Greenock Morton 1-2
30th January 1971
MALCOLM HOWLETT – England Youth
IRELAND International Friendly at Blackpool 1-0
6th February 1971
KEVIN LOCK – England Youth
POLAND - sub European Youth Tournament in Czechoslovakia 0-0
RUSSIA European Youth Tournament Semi-Final in Czechoslovakia 1-1 won on pens
SPAIN International Friendly at Bramall Lane 4-1
POLAND Tournament – Semi-Final 1-0
WEST GERMANY Tournament – Final in Barcelona 2-0
HUNGARY Old Trafford 3-1
1971
1971
?
?
1972
?
?
?
?
March 1976
England Under-23
24th May 1973
29th May 1973
1st June 1973
23rd March 1975
DENMARK International Friendly in Naestved 1-1
HOLLAND International Friendly in Maastricht 0-1
CZECHOSLOVAKIA International Friendly in Bratislava 0-3
HUNGARY European Championship Qualifier at Old Trafford 3-1
KEVIN LOCK (1972-1978)
Signed apprentice in the summer of 1969. Kevin made his Hammers debut as substitute for David Llewellyn in the match against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane on 29th February 1972 which ended in a 0-3 defeat. A first-class defender, given the unenviable task of filling Bobby Moore's number six shirt after the Hammers' skipper had taken the road to Craven Cottage, he did surprisingly well. Indeed, Kevin took the opportunity to show how well he had learned from the old maestro in the unique 1975 Cup Final confrontation, making a major contribution to West Ham's victory. Hammers then made a £60,000 profit when he joined Fulham, having paid out no more than the statutory signing-on fee in 1969. Four England Under-23 caps.
JOHNNY AYRIS – England Youth
1971
1971
1971
1971
1971
31st March 1971
28th April 1971
YUGOSLAVIA European Youth Tournament in Czechoslovakia ???
SWEDEN European Youth Tournament in Czechoslovakia ???
POLAND - sub European Youth Tournament in Czechoslovakia 0-0
RUSSIA European Youth Tournament Semi-Final in Czechoslovakia 1-1 won on pens
PORTUGAL European Youth Tournament Final in Czechoslovakia 3-0
SPAIN International Friendly in Pamplona 2-3
SPAIN International Friendly Luton 1-1
Brilliant wing forward prospect who didn't quite fulfil early promise after experiencing injury problems. Signed as a full professional in October 1970 and made his League debut against Burnley on the 3rd October 1970 in a 3-1 victory at Upton Park. He was selected for the England Youth team seven times in 1971. Given a free transfer at the end of the 1976-77 season, he first joined Wimbledon and then went on trial to Brentford.
TOMMY TAYLOR – England Under-23
EAST GERMANY – sub International Friendly in Magdeburg 2-2
WALES International Friendly at Swansea 3-0
HOLLAND International Friendly at Highbury 3-1
CZECHOSLOVAKIA International Friendly at Villa Park 1-0
POLAND International Friendly at Home Park, Plymouth 0-0
DENMARK International Friendly Fratton Park 1-1
WALES International Friendly at Ashton Gate 0-0
SCOTLAND International Friendly at St James’ Park 2-0
TURKEY International Friendly Ankara 0-0 Abandoned H.T
YUGOSLAVIA International Friendly Zrenjanin 0-1
FRANCE International Friendly in Valence 2-2
PORTUGAL European Championship Qualifier Selhurst Park 2-0
1st June 1972
29th November 1972
2 January 1973
7th March 1973
16th October 1973
13th November 1973
16th January 1974
13th March 1974
11th May 1974
15th May 1974
19th May 1974
18th November 1975
TOMMY TAYLOR (1970-1979)
His arrival from near-neighbours Orient in October 1970 for a hefty fee plus Peter Bennett as part of the deal, solved a long-standing defensive problem for Hammers. Tommy had caught the attention of a number of clubs in his auspicious start with the Brisbane Road outfit, during which time he helped "O's" to promotion from Division Three and also captained the England Youth team. Tommy made his Hammers debut in the London derby against Tottenham Hotspur at Upton Park in a 2-2 draw on the 17th October 1970. He was on the verge of full international recognition after winning no less than 13 Under-23 honours whilst with Hammers, albeit some of which were permissible under the ruling that allowed over-age players in the team. An integral member of the side which brought Cup success to Upton Park in the mid-Seventies, he returned to his former club in the summer of 1979 after losing his place to Alvin Martin.
JOHN McDOWELL - England Under-23
29th November 1972
2nd January 1973
13th February 1973
7th March 1973
24th May 1973
29th May 1973
1st June 1973
16th October 1973
13th November 1973
13th March 1974
11th May 1974
15th May 1974
19th May 1974
WALES International Friendly in Swansea 3-0
HOLLAND International Friendly at Highbury 3-1
SCOTLAND International Friendly in Kilmarnock 2-1
CZECHOSLOVAKIA International Friendly at Villa Park 1-0
DENMARK International Friendly in Naestved 1-1
HOLLAND International Friendly in Maastricht 0-1
CZECHOSLOVAKIA International Friendly in Bratislava 0-3
POLAND International Friendly at Home Park, Plymouth 0-0
DENMARK International Friendly at Fratton Park 1-1
SCOTLAND International Friendly at St James’ Park 2-0
TURKEY International Friendly in Ankara 0-0 Abandoned H.T
YUGOSLAVIA - sub International Friendly in Zrenjanin 0-1
FRANCE International Friendly in Valence 2-2
JOHN McDOWELL (1970-1979)
Versatile, talented defender. Made his League debut against Blackpool on the 31st October 1970, and was subsequently picked 12 times for the England Under-23 side, after gaining a Youth cap. John had ten years as a First-Teamer, but missed the entire 1976-77 season through injury. Honours: F.A. Cup Winners medal 1975, European Cup Winners' Cup Runners-up medal 1976. Transferred to Norwich City in 1979, where he joined up with ex-Hammers John Bond and Ken Brown - then bossing the City outfit.
Born. East Ham, London 07/09/1951.
Apps: 243/6 (gls 8) Cup: 53 (gls 1)
MERVYN DAY – England Under-23
YUGOSLAVIA International Friendly in Zrenjanin 0-1
FRANCE - sub International Friendly in Valence 2-2
SCOTLAND International Friendly Aberdeen 3-0
WALES International Friendly in Wrexham 2-0
PORTUGAL European Championship Qualifier at Selhurst Park 2-0
15th May 1974
19th May 1974
18th December 1974
21st January 1975
18th November 1975
MERVYN DAY (1973-1979)
Mervyn made his Hammers debut in the 3-3 draw with Ipswich Town at Upton Park on the 27th August 1973. Such was the impact this brilliant custodian made on breaking into West Ham's First XI that he prompted the normally reticent Ron Greenwood to declare: "This is the England goalkeeper for the next ten years." Alas, Mervyn never quite lived up to that heady expectation and his sad departure from Upton Park was not helped by media exposure, which seemed to blow up any little mistake out of all proportion. While with the Hammers Mervyn gained England Under-23 caps (4), F.A. Cup Winners medal 1975, European Cup Winners' Cup Runners-up medal 1976. Also recipient of P.F.A. "Young Player of the Year" award in '75. It cost Orient a cool £100,000 to take him to Brisbane Road, where he performed with distinction. After a short spell with Aston Villa he went to Leeds United and helped them to the Second Division Championship in the 1989-90 campaign.
ALAN CURBISHLEY – England Youth
1975
1975
25th January 1975
1975
1975
11th February 1976
POLAND F.A. International Youth Tournament Canary Islands 1-1
LAS PALMAS F.A. International Youth Tournament Canary Islands 4-1
WEST GERMANY F.A. International Youth Tournament Canary Islands 4-2
SPAIN UEFA Tournament Qualifier – 1st leg ??? 1-1
SPAIN UEFA Tournament Qualifier – 2nd leg in Madrid 1-0
WALES UEFA Tournament Qualifier at Ninian Park 1-0
