West Ham United v Aston Villa footage emerges with John Hartson left blown away
West Ham beat Aston Villa 3-0 in 1997 and former Hammers striker John Hartson has reacted to the footage that emerged of his goal from the game.
Hartson admits that it’s the best headed goal he’s scored in his career, including memorable strikes for Arsenal, Celtic and Wimbledon.
The former Wales international has also lauded Tim Breacker for an exceptional cross which saw him get into a good position to head the ball home.
Hartson wrote on X: “My best headed goal I ever scored. Tim Breacker with a perfect cross and the late Ugo Ehiogu got under the ball.”
West Ham fans surely would’ve wanted a few more years of John Hartson
Hartson was an industrious striker known for his physical presence and aerial ability, traits that endeared him to fans wherever he played.
During his time in East London, the Welshman’s robust style and knack for scoring crucial goals quickly won over the Hammers’ support.
His goal against Aston Villa in 1997, which he himself rates as his finest header, exemplifies his proficiency in the air and his ability to capitalise on well-delivered crosses.
West Ham fans would have appreciated having Hartson for a longer period not just for his goal-scoring prowess but also for his work ethic and the physicality he brought to the team, which often bullied defenders and provided a different dynamic in their attack.
He did join Wimbledon for big money so it served the Hammers well as they made a decent payday from his departure.
Throughout his career, the Welsh striker was linked with high-profile clubs including Manchester United and Rangers as well.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers and Newcastle are in a battle to sign a £10m+ Leicester player in the January transfer window.
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