Throughout the rich and proud history of West Ham United, there have been players whose impact transcended their performances on the pitch. These individuals became legends not just because of their skill, but because of their loyalty, leadership, and the love they earned from the fans. From the golden era of English football to the modern-day heroes, West Ham’s heart has been shaped by these iconic figures. In this article, Win Tips Bet dives deep into the lives and careers of 7 West Ham best players to have ever worn the famous claret and blue, honoring the legacy they built at the club.
Meet the 7 West Ham best players who became club legends
Let's rank the 7 West Ham best players who have brought achievements and significant contributions to the team:
7. Declan Rice
Declan Rice’s rise at West Ham United embodies the dreams of every young footballer. Making his debut as a teenager at just 18 years old, Rice quickly showcased a maturity beyond his years. His commanding performances in midfield earned him the Players' Player of the Year award by the time he was 19. However, it was his appointment as club captain at the tender age of 20, succeeding the beloved Mark Noble, that solidified his place in West Ham folklore.
Rice’s leadership qualities were apparent both on and off the field. Over eight seasons, he played 245 games for the Hammers, demonstrating unmatched consistency and passion. His crowning moment came when he led West Ham to victory in the UEFA Europa Conference League final, becoming only the third captain in the club’s history, after Billy Bonds and Bobby Moore, to lift major silverware.
Despite his eventual departure to Arsenal for a club-record £100 million, Rice’s legacy at West Ham remains untarnished. His journey from academy hopeful to European champion reflects the spirit of West Ham - perseverance, passion, and pride.
6. Frank Lampard Sr
When discussing loyalty and dedication, Frank Lampard Sr’s name is impossible to overlook. Joining West Ham’s youth setup at the age of 15, Lampard Sr made his professional debut at 19 and went on to serve the club for an astonishing 18 years. In a career that spanned nearly two decades, he amassed 660 appearances in the famous claret and blue.
Lampard Sr was more than just a reliable left-back; he was a pillar of the defense, known for his tenacity and dependability. His contributions helped West Ham lift two FA Cups, triumphing over Fulham in 1975 and Arsenal in 1980. Furthermore, his efforts helped the Hammers secure the Second Division title in 1981, ensuring their swift return to the top flight.
After departing for Southend United, Lampard’s presence was felt at West Ham through his family legacy, with his son, Frank Lampard Jr, becoming one of England’s most celebrated midfielders. Still, for the West Ham faithful, it is Lampard Sr’s unwavering loyalty and tireless performances that have earned him a permanent place in their hearts.
5. Mark Noble
Few players embody the identity of a football club as much as Mark Noble does for West Ham United. Nicknamed "Mr. West Ham," Noble’s love affair with the club began at the age of 13 when he joined the youth academy. He made his first-team debut at just 17 years old and remained with the club until his retirement at 35, spanning a remarkable 18-year senior career.
Noble’s career wasn’t adorned with silverware, but what he offered was loyalty in its purest form. During his time, West Ham faced relegation twice from the Premier League, but Noble stood firm, refusing to abandon the team during its darkest moments. His reliability from the penalty spot and leadership qualities made him a fan favorite and a symbol of resilience.
After retiring in 2022, Noble didn't stray far from his beloved club. He transitioned into a leadership role off the pitch, becoming West Ham’s sporting director in 2022. Even in retirement, Noble’s influence continues to guide the next generation of players, reinforcing the enduring spirit of West Ham United.
4. Trevor Brooking
Sir Trevor Brooking’s name is synonymous with elegance, professionalism, and loyalty. Over his 18-year playing career at West Ham, Brooking made 647 appearances, showcasing his ability to control the midfield with intelligence, composure, and two-footed finesse. Rarely finding himself on the wrong side of referees, Brooking’s style of play exemplified fair play and respect.
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Brooking’s impact extended beyond his playing days. After retiring, he remained closely tied to the club and English football, working as a board member and later as a director of football development. His legacy is so revered that both the Boleyn Ground and the London Stadium have a stand named in his honor - the Sir Trevor Brooking Stand.
At 76, Brooking continues to be a key figure in English football, his enduring passion inspiring fans and players alike. His dedication to West Ham, both on and off the pitch, cements his place as one of the club’s all-time greats.
3. Geoff Hurst
Sir Geoff Hurst’s name resonates not just within West Ham but across the globe. Best known for his unforgettable hat-trick in England’s 1966 World Cup final victory over West Germany, Hurst also carved out a remarkable career at West Ham United. Initially a midfielder, it was under Ron Greenwood’s guidance that Hurst transitioned into a striker, a move that would define his career.
During his time at West Ham, Hurst scored 248 goals in 499 appearances, a staggering record that showcases his lethal finishing ability. He played pivotal roles in West Ham’s FA Cup triumph in 1964 and their European Cup Winners' Cup victory in 1965.
Receiving a knighthood later in life only added to his legendary status, but for West Ham fans, it was his loyalty, brilliance, and ability to rise to the occasion that made him a hero. Hurst’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of strikers who dream of reaching similar heights.
2. Billy Bonds
If West Ham United were to have a spirit animal, it would undoubtedly be Billy Bonds. Joining from Charlton Athletic in 1967 for a modest £50,000 fee, Bonds became the embodiment of West Ham’s grit, passion, and perseverance. His incredible 799 appearances, spanning an incredible 21 seasons, remain a record unlikely ever to be broken.
Bonds wasn’t just a tough defender; he was also a natural leader. Captaining the side to two FA Cup victories, he showcased unrelenting determination and versatility, often switching between defense and midfield depending on the team’s needs. His playing career continued into his early 40s, a testament to his fitness and commitment.
After retiring, Bonds served as West Ham’s youth coach and later as the first-team manager from 1990 to 1994. His quarter-century of service as both player and coach etched his name permanently into the club’s history. For West Ham fans, Billy Bonds isn’t just a legend - he is the embodiment of everything the club stands for.
1. Bobby Moore
Topping the list, as expected, is the incomparable Bobby Moore. Widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in the history of football, Moore’s influence at West Ham and in England is unparalleled. Captain of England’s 1966 World Cup-winning team, Moore was the epitome of class, composure, and leadership.
At West Ham, Moore played over 600 games and won the club’s Player of the Year award four times. His defensive abilities were unmatched, boasting impeccable positioning, incredible football intelligence, and precise tackling. Remarkably, Moore overcame a battle with cancer at just 23 years old, yet went on to achieve historic success both domestically and internationally.
Under his captaincy, West Ham lifted the FA Cup in 1964 and the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1965. His legacy lives on, with statues, tributes, and the undying respect of not just West Ham fans but football enthusiasts worldwide. Six decades after his greatest triumph, Moore remains the gold standard for defenders.
For West Ham fans, Bobby Moore is more than a club legend - he is a symbol of excellence and pride, representing the very best of what it means to wear the claret and blue.
To wrap it up
In conclusion, the 7 West Ham best players we've highlighted in this article have not only shaped the club’s history but have also become icons in the world of football. From the towering leadership of Bobby Moore to the modern brilliance of Declan Rice, each of these legends left an unforgettable legacy. Their skill, dedication, and passion for the game made them more than just great footballers; they became symbols of West Ham's heart and soul. As the club continues to evolve, the memories of these 7 West Ham best players will forever be etched in the minds of fans, reminding everyone what it truly means to wear the claret and blue.
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