West Ham United have had their fair share of legendary figures over the years, with Upton Park having witnessed some of the greatest stars.
With the East London outfit’s rich history, there isn’t a dearth of heroes that the current generation can look up to as they try to bring the good times back at the Hammers.
The Irons have mostly played their football in the English top flight over the years, whether that be the Football League First Division or the Premier League, leading to several historic moments that have centred around players who’ve etched their names in history.
Bobby Moore
- Appearances: 647
- Years at West Ham: 1958–1974
- Trophies: FA Cup, FA Charity Shield, European Cup Winners’ Cup
Bobby Moore is arguably the greatest player to wear West Ham’s shirt, with the centre-back considered one of the best players during his time.
The England international spent 16 years with the Hammers, winning their first major trophy in 1964 with the FA Cup and subsequently winning the Charity Shield the same year. The centre-back also helped win the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1965.
Apart from Moore’s heroics with the Irons, he also lifted the World Cup title as England’s captain in 1966.
Billy Bonds
- Appearances: 799
- Years at West Ham: 1967–1988
- Trophies: Two FA Cups, Football League Second Division
One of the longest-serving players for the Irons, Billy Bonds, will go down in history as the player with the most appearances for them, spanning a career of 21 seasons.
The Englishman was versatile, capable of playing in midfield and defence, with his longevity in the game something to admire.
In 1975, Bonds helped the Hammers win their third FA Cup title, scoring in the final, and lifted the trophy again in 1980. The icon also helped the East London club win the Football League Second Division in 1981.
The Englishman came short of winning the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup in 1976, with West Ham runners-up.
Trevor Brooking
- Appearances: 643
- Goals: 102
- Years at West Ham: 1967–1984
- Trophies: Two FA Cups, Football League Second Division
Trevor Brooking was part of the successful Hammers side that featured Bonds, providing the team with the attacking impetus and creativity needed in the final third.
The creative midfielder was part of the FA Cup triumphs alongside Bonds, scoring in both finals, with the match-winning header against Arsenal in 1980 being unforgettable.
Brooking spent 17 years at the Irons before immediately becoming a coach and part of the backroom staff for several years. The Englishman also served in the Irons’ boardroom as Director of Football Development and Vice Chairman.
Frank Lampard Sr
- Appearances: 670
- Years at West Ham: 1967–1985
- Trophies: Two FA Cups, Football League Second Division
Another member of that famous West Ham side, Frank Lampard Sr, was the reliable left-back for almost 18 years.
The Englishman has made the second-most appearances for the Hammers, part of the triumphant team that won the FA Cups in 1975 and 1980.
Lampard was a versatile player for the Irons, capable of playing at centre-back and in midfield, and was crucial in the East London club’s successful era.
Geoff Hurst
- Appearances: 499
- Goals: 248
- Years at West Ham: 1958–1972
- Trophies: FA Cup, FA Charity Shield, European Cup Winners’ Cup
Geoff Hurst is West Ham’s second-highest goalscorer, behind Vic Watson. The Englishman started the Hammers’ successful period playing alongside Moore.
The striker helped the Irons to their first FA Cup in 1964 and subsequently won the Charity Shield. He was also instrumental in lifting the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1965.
Hurst had several memorable moments in a claret and blue shit, his hat-trick against Germany in the World Cup final undoubtedly makes him one of the most significant figures not just at the East London club, but also in English football.