West Ham host Liverpool at the London Stadium this afternoon.placeholder image
West Ham host Liverpool at the London Stadium this afternoon. | Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Billy Bonds made a staggering 799 appearances for West Ham over a 21-year career.
The family of West Ham legend Billy Bonds MBE have announced that the former player, coach and manager has passed away this weekend at the age of 79.
The longest serving player in West Ham history, the former defensive midfielder made 799 appearances for the Hammers across a 21-year career. Bonds captained the side to two FA Cup trophies and a Second Division title.
The player won four Hammer of the Year awards and an MBE in January 1988. Bonds also had a successful four year stint managing West Ham between 1990 and 1994.
West Ham legend Billy Bonds MBE passes away
As a manager, he led the club to promotion in his first season in charge and into the Premier League in 1993, following a 1992 relegation. Bonds also managed Millwall between 1997 and 1998.
A statement from the former player’s family, shared via the West Ham website, read: “We are heartbroken to announce that we lost our beloved Dad today. He was devoted to his family and was the most kind, loyal, selfless, and loving person.
“Dad loved West Ham United and its wonderful supporters with all his heart and treasured every moment of his time at the Club. He will always be in our hearts and eternally missed. We take comfort knowing that his legacy will live on forever.”
West Ham to honour club legend against Liverpool and Aston Villa
West Ham have confirmed that Bonds will be honoured ahead of kick-off against Liverpool this afternoon with a ‘period of appreciation’. There will also be a more complete tribute at the club’s next home game, which is against Aston Villa on Sunday, December 14.
The club said: “The thoughts and sincere condolences of everyone at West Ham United are with Claire, Katie, Eloise and Elissa as they come to terms with their loss, and we kindly ask that the family’s privacy is respected at this sad and difficult time.
“A period of appreciation to honour Billy will be held before kick-off at today’s Premier League home fixture v Liverpool, and a full tribute will take place at our next home fixture against Aston Villa, on Sunday 14 December. Further tributes will also appear across Club channels in the coming days. Rest in peace Billy, our courageous, inspirational, lion-hearted leader.”
West Ham figures past and present have been paying tribute to Bonds this morning, remembering his impact on the pitch and in the dugout with the Hammers. Former West Ham striker Tony Cottee took to social media platform X and wrote: “Can’t believe the news about Bonzo… One of my heroes growing up and I then had the pleasure of playing with him. An incredible footballer, leader and captain but above all else a very humble and fantastic person. RIP Bill. I will miss you mate.”
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