Best West Ham United Players of All Time: A Definitive List

West Ham United Football Club is one of the most storied teams in English football history. The club has produced some of the game’s most iconic players, from legendary forwards to stalwart defenders. West Ham United’s history is steeped in tradition, and the club has a rich legacy of success on and off the pitch.

Over the years, West Ham United has been home to some of the game’s most iconic midfielders, such as Trevor Brooking and Frank Lampard Sr. The club has also produced a number of goalkeeping greats, including Phil Parkes and Ludek Miklosko. And, of course, West Ham United has had its fair share of record breakers, from Billy Bonds to Mark Noble.

Key Takeaways

• West Ham United Football Club has a rich legacy of success on and off the pitch.
• The club has produced some of the game’s most iconic players, from legendary forwards to stalwart defenders.
• West Ham United has been home to some of the game’s most iconic midfielders, goalkeeping greats, and record breakers.

Legendary Forwards

West Ham United has had some of the best forwards in the history of English football. These players have not only been instrumental in the success of the club but have also left a lasting legacy that is still celebrated by fans today. Here are some of the most legendary forwards to have played for West Ham United.

Geoff Hurst

Geoff Hurst is one of the most iconic players to have ever played for West Ham United. He is best known for his hat-trick in the 1966 World Cup final, where he helped England lift the trophy for the first time. Hurst was also a prolific scorer for West Ham, scoring 242 goals in 500 appearances for the club. He was a key member of the team that won the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1965 and the FA Cup in 1964 and 1975.

Tony Cottee

Tony Cottee is another legendary forward who played for West Ham United. He was a product of the club’s youth academy and went on to make 279 appearances, scoring 115 goals. Cottee was known for his speed and agility, and was a key player in the team that finished third in the First Division in 1986. He also helped the club win the FA Cup in 1980 and the Second Division title in 1981.

Paolo Di Canio

Paolo Di Canio is one of the most talented players to have ever played for West Ham United. He was known for his skill and flair on the ball, and was a fan favourite during his time at the club. Di Canio scored some of the most memorable goals in West Ham’s history, including a stunning volley against Wimbledon in 2000 that was voted the club’s goal of the season. He also helped the club reach the FA Cup final in 2006, where they were beaten by Liverpool.

These three legendary forwards are just a few examples of the great players who have played for West Ham United. Their contributions to the club’s success will always be remembered by fans, and they will forever be a part of the club’s history.

Iconic Midfielders

West Ham United has had its fair share of legendary midfielders throughout its history. From the World Cup-winning captain to the elegant playmaker, the club has been blessed with some of the most gifted players in the game. In this section, we will take a closer look at some of the most iconic midfielders to have ever graced the field in the famous claret and blue shirt.

Bobby Moore

Bobby Moore is arguably the greatest player to have ever played for West Ham United. The legendary defender was the captain of the England team that won the World Cup in 1966, and he also led the Hammers to their own glory, winning the FA Cup in 1964 and the Cup Winners’ Cup in 1965. Despite being a defender, he was known for his exceptional ball control, vision, and ability to read the game. His leadership skills and calmness under pressure made him a role model for many young players.

Trevor Brooking

Trevor Brooking is another midfield legend who spent his entire career at West Ham United. He was a versatile player who could play in several positions, but he was most effective as a central midfielder. Brooking was known for his excellent technique, vision, and passing ability. He was a key player in the Hammers’ successful FA Cup campaigns in 1975 and 1980, and he also helped the club win the Cup Winners’ Cup in 1976. Brooking was a true gentleman of the game and remains a beloved figure among West Ham fans.

Martin Peters

Martin Peters was a product of the West Ham United youth system and went on to become one of the best midfielders of his generation. He was a complete midfielder who could defend, attack, and score goals. Peters played a key role in England’s World Cup-winning campaign in 1966, scoring a crucial goal in the final against West Germany. He also helped West Ham win the FA Cup in 1964 and the Cup Winners’ Cup in 1965. Peters was known for his intelligence, work rate, and ability to read the game. He was a true all-rounder and a joy to watch on the field.

These three midfielders are just a few examples of the many great players who have represented West Ham United over the years. They each brought their own unique qualities to the team and helped to shape the club’s history. West Ham fans will always hold these legends close to their hearts, and their contributions to the game will never be forgotten.

Stalwart Defenders

West Ham United has a rich history of producing some of the best defenders in English football. Here are three of the club’s greatest stalwart defenders.

Billy Bonds

Billy Bonds is one of the most iconic and beloved players in West Ham United’s history. He joined the club in 1967 and went on to make a staggering 793 appearances for the Hammers, making him the club’s all-time appearance leader. Bonds was a versatile player who could play in either defense or midfield, but he is best known for his commanding performances as a center-back. He was a tough and uncompromising defender who was feared by opposition strikers. Bonds captained West Ham United to two FA Cup victories and one European Cup Winners’ Cup triumph.

Alvin Martin

Alvin Martin is another legendary defender who spent his entire career at West Ham United. He was a towering center-back who was known for his aerial prowess and ability to read the game. Martin made 598 appearances for the Hammers and scored 34 goals, including a famous hat-trick against Tottenham Hotspur in 1986. Martin was part of the West Ham United team that won the FA Cup in 1980 and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1985.

Rio Ferdinand

Rio Ferdinand is one of the most successful and decorated players to have come through the West Ham United academy. He made his debut for the club in 1996 and quickly established himself as one of the best young defenders in England. Ferdinand was a ball-playing center-back who was comfortable on the ball and had excellent vision. He made 158 appearances for West Ham United before moving to Leeds United in 2000 for a then-world-record fee for a defender. Ferdinand went on to win six Premier League titles, one UEFA Champions League title, and one FIFA Club World Cup during his career.

Goalkeeping Greats

West Ham United has had some incredible goalkeepers throughout its history. Here are two of the best:

Phil Parkes

Phil Parkes is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in West Ham United’s history. He joined the club in 1979 from Queens Park Rangers and quickly established himself as the number one goalkeeper. In his first season, he helped the team win the FA Cup, making several crucial saves in the final against Arsenal.

Parkes was known for his commanding presence in the penalty area and his ability to make acrobatic saves. He was also incredibly consistent and holds the record for the most consecutive clean sheets in the English top flight with 10. Parkes was named Hammer of the Year in 1981 and played over 300 games for the club before leaving in 1988.

Ludek Miklosko

Ludek Miklosko is another legendary goalkeeper who played for West Ham United. The Czech goalkeeper joined the club in 1990 and quickly established himself as a fan favorite. He played a key role in the team’s successful 1990-91 season, helping them finish seventh in the league and reach the semi-finals of the League Cup.

Miklosko was known for his agility and quick reflexes, as well as his ability to make crucial saves. He also had a great understanding with his defenders and was an excellent communicator. Miklosko played over 300 games for West Ham United before leaving in 1998.

Both Phil Parkes and Ludek Miklosko are revered by West Ham United fans for their incredible performances and contributions to the club’s success. They will always be remembered as two of the greatest goalkeepers to have ever played for West Ham United.

Notable Managers

West Ham United has had a number of notable managers over the years who have played a significant role in shaping the club’s history. Two of the most notable managers in West Ham’s history are Ron Greenwood and John Lyall.

Ron Greenwood

Ron Greenwood was the manager of West Ham United from 1961 to 1974 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest managers in the club’s history. During his time at the club, he led West Ham United to their first major trophy, the 1964 FA Cup, and to the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1965.

Greenwood was known for his innovative tactics and his ability to develop young talent. He played a key role in the development of players such as Bobby Moore, Geoff Hurst, and Martin Peters, who went on to become key members of the England national team that won the 1966 World Cup.

John Lyall

John Lyall is another legendary manager in the history of West Ham United. He managed the club from 1974 to 1989 and led them to two FA Cup wins in 1975 and 1980. He also led the team to a second-place finish in the First Division in 1986.

Lyall was known for his ability to get the best out of his players and for his tactical acumen. He was also known for his ability to develop young talent, having played a key role in the development of players such as Tony Cottee, Paul Allen, and Alvin Martin.

Overall, both Ron Greenwood and John Lyall played a pivotal role in the history of West Ham United, and their contributions to the club will never be forgotten.

Cult Heroes

West Ham United has had its fair share of cult heroes over the years. These players are often remembered for their unique contributions to the club, both on and off the pitch. Two of the most beloved cult heroes in West Ham’s history are Carlos Tevez and Mark Noble.

Carlos Tevez

Carlos Tevez is one of the most talented players to ever wear the West Ham United shirt. The Argentine striker arrived at the club in 2006 and quickly became a fan favorite. Tevez’s performances on the pitch were nothing short of sensational, and he played a key role in helping West Ham avoid relegation that season.

Tevez’s most memorable moment in a West Ham shirt came in the final game of the 2006-2007 season. The Hammers needed a win to avoid relegation, and Tevez scored the only goal of the game against Manchester United to secure the three points and keep West Ham in the Premier League.

Mark Noble

Mark Noble is a true West Ham United legend. The midfielder has been with the club since he was a youth player and has made over 500 appearances for the Hammers. Noble is known for his passion, work rate, and leadership on the pitch.

Noble has been a key player for West Ham for over a decade and has helped the club through some difficult times. He played a vital role in the club’s promotion back to the Premier League in 2012 and has been a consistent performer ever since.

Noble’s loyalty and commitment to West Ham United have made him a fan favorite and a true cult hero at the club. His performances on the pitch have earned him the respect of his teammates, opponents, and fans alike.

Record Breakers

West Ham United has witnessed some of the greatest players in football history, who have left an indelible mark on the game. Here are some of the record breakers who made history at the club.

Vic Watson

Vic Watson was a prolific goal scorer who played for West Ham United from 1920 to 1935. He is the club’s all-time leading scorer with 326 goals in 505 appearances. Watson holds the record for the most hat-tricks scored in a single season, with nine hat-tricks in the 1929-30 season. He also holds the record for the most goals scored in a single game, with six goals against Leeds United in 1929.

Geoff Hurst’s 1966 World Cup Hat-Trick

Geoff Hurst is one of the most iconic players in West Ham United’s history. He is best known for his hat-trick in the 1966 World Cup final, which helped England win the tournament. Hurst scored 248 goals in 500 appearances for West Ham United, making him the second-highest scorer in the club’s history. He also holds the record for the most goals scored in a single season, with 40 goals in the 1960-61 season.

These record breakers have left a lasting legacy at West Ham United, and their achievements will always be remembered by fans of the club.

Historic Moments

West Ham United has a rich history of iconic players who have left an indelible mark on the club. From Bobby Moore to Paolo Di Canio, these players have brought skill, passion, and excitement to the fans. In this section, we will take a look at some of the historic moments that have defined West Ham United’s legacy.

One of the most significant moments in West Ham’s history was their victory in the 1964 FA Cup final against Preston North End. The Hammers won the game 3-2, with goals from Ronnie Boyce, Geoff Hurst, and John Sissons. The victory marked the first time that West Ham had won a major trophy, and it remains one of the most cherished moments in the club’s history.

Another historic moment came in the 1965 European Cup Winners’ Cup final against TSV Munich 1860. West Ham won the game 2-0, with goals from Alan Sealey, and Bobby Moore. The win made West Ham the first English club to win a European trophy, and it cemented their place in football history.

In 1980, West Ham reached the FA Cup final once again, this time against Arsenal. The game was a tense affair, with both teams failing to score in the first 90 minutes. However, in the 100th minute, Trevor Brooking scored the winning goal, giving West Ham their third FA Cup trophy.

West Ham’s success continued in the 1990s, with the emergence of players like Julian Dicks, Tony Cottee, and Paolo Di Canio. Di Canio’s famous scissor kick goal against Wimbledon in 2000 is still remembered as one of the greatest goals in Premier League history.

Overall, West Ham United has a rich history of historic moments, and the club’s legacy is defined by the players who have contributed to these moments. From the 1964 FA Cup victory to Di Canio’s scissor kick, these moments will forever be etched in the memories of West Ham fans.

The Academy of Football

West Ham United is known for its youth academy, which has produced some of the best players in the club’s history. The academy is often referred to as the “Academy of Football” due to its reputation for developing young talent.

The academy was established in 1895 and has since produced many notable players, including Bobby Moore, Geoff Hurst, and Martin Peters, who all played a crucial role in England’s 1966 World Cup victory. The academy has also produced players such as Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand, and Joe Cole, who went on to have successful careers at other clubs.

The academy has a strong focus on developing players’ technical ability, tactical understanding, and physical attributes. The club’s youth teams play in various competitions, including the Premier League 2 and the EFL Trophy, which provide valuable experience for young players.

The academy has a clear pathway for young players to progress through the ranks and into the first team. Players are regularly scouted from a young age and are given the opportunity to train with the first team and play in pre-season friendlies.

The academy also has a strong emphasis on education, with players required to attend school and complete their studies alongside their football development. This ensures that players have a well-rounded education and are prepared for life after football.

Overall, the academy of football is a vital part of West Ham United’s history and continues to produce talented players who go on to have successful careers in football.

Impact of Foreign Players

Foreign players have played a significant role in the history of West Ham United. They have brought their unique style of play and have helped the club achieve great success over the years. Some of the most notable foreign players who have made a significant impact on the club include Paolo Di Canio, Carlos Tevez, and Dimitri Payet.

Paolo Di Canio, an Italian forward, joined West Ham United in 1999 and quickly became a fan favorite. He was known for his technical ability, creativity, and flair on the ball. During his time at the club, he scored some of the most memorable goals in the club’s history, including a spectacular scissor-kick against Wimbledon in 2000. Di Canio’s passion and commitment to the club earned him a place in the hearts of West Ham fans.

Carlos Tevez, an Argentine forward, joined West Ham United on loan in 2006 and played a crucial role in helping the club avoid relegation that season. He scored seven goals in ten games, including a hat-trick against Blackburn Rovers. Tevez’s performances earned him a permanent move to the club, and he went on to score 24 goals in 36 appearances for West Ham.

Dimitri Payet, a French attacking midfielder, joined West Ham United in 2015 and made an immediate impact. He was the club’s top scorer that season, scoring 12 goals and providing 15 assists in all competitions. Payet’s creativity and ability to score goals from free-kicks made him a fan favorite, and he was named the club’s Player of the Year in his first season.

Foreign players have not only brought their skills and talent to West Ham United but have also helped the club attract a global fan base. Their impact on the club’s history cannot be overstated, and they will always be remembered as some of the best players to have ever played for the Hammers.

Conclusion

Foreign players have played a significant role in the history of West Ham United, bringing their unique style of play and helping the club achieve great success over the years. The likes of Paolo Di Canio, Carlos Tevez, and Dimitri Payet will always be remembered as some of the best players to have ever played for the Hammers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are considered legends in West Ham United’s history?

West Ham United has a rich history, and several players have earned legendary status for their contributions to the club. Bobby Moore, the captain of England’s 1966 World Cup-winning team, is widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in the history of the game. Other West Ham legends include Geoff Hurst, who scored a hat-trick in the 1966 World Cup final, and Martin Peters, who also played a key role in England’s World Cup triumph.

Which midfielder is recognized as the best in West Ham’s history?

West Ham United has produced several outstanding midfielders over the years, but the one who is widely regarded as the best is Trevor Brooking. Brooking is a club legend, having made over 600 appearances for the Hammers between 1967 and 1984. He was known for his skill on the ball, his vision, and his ability to control the tempo of a game. Brooking helped West Ham win the FA Cup twice during his career, and he also played for England at the 1982 World Cup.

Who holds the record for most goals scored for West Ham United?

The player who holds the record for most goals scored for West Ham United is Vic Watson. Watson played for the Hammers between 1920 and 1935, and during that time he scored an incredible 326 goals in 505 appearances. Watson was a prolific scorer who helped West Ham win the Second Division title in 1923 and the FA Cup in 1923 and 1930.

Can you name some standout West Ham United players from the 1980s?

The 1980s were a successful period for West Ham United, and the team had several standout players during that time. One of the most notable was Tony Cottee, who scored 146 goals in two spells with the club. Other standout players from the 1980s include Alvin Martin, who made over 500 appearances for the Hammers, and Frank McAvennie, who scored 50 goals in 152 appearances.

Who has been named West Ham’s Player of the Year in the past?

West Ham United has named a Player of the Year every season since 1958, and several players have won the award multiple times. The player who has won the award the most times is Julian Dicks, who was named West Ham’s Player of the Year four times in the early 1990s. Other players who have won the award multiple times include Bobby Moore, Trevor Brooking, and Billy Bonds.

Which defender is currently regarded as the best at West Ham United?

West Ham United currently has several outstanding defenders, but the one who is currently regarded as the best is Issa Diop. Diop joined the Hammers in 2018 and quickly established himself as a key player in the team’s defense. He is known for his physicality, his aerial ability, and his composure on the ball. Diop has helped West Ham establish themselves as one of the best defensive teams in the Premier League, and he is widely regarded as one of the most promising young defenders in Europe.