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Football pioneer Clyde Best has had as much to do with West Ham’s return to the top flight

Football pioneer Clyde Best (right) has had as much to do with West Ham’s return to the top flight as any of the current crop of Hammers.

While the likes of Nigel Reo-Coker, Marlon Harewood and Bobby Zamora take their chances in front of goal, Best took the opportunity to promote himself and black footballers three decades ago in the most difficult of circumstances.

The Hammers have relied on all their players during what, to date, has been an impressive step up in class. Relegation is no longer an option and Hammers’ fans are reaching for their sunglasses such is the bright future anticipated.

RACISM

But a look at the West Ham team sheet confirms just how far black footballers have come. There was a time when Best, and other black players representing the club, had to put up with intolerable racism and that was from their own supporters.

The current crop of African-Caribbean footballers at West Ham, at these exciting times for the club, should, on occasion, spare a thought for Best, who was delighted after being appointed an MBE in the New Year Honours list.

Best, 54, came through the ranks to make over 200 appearances for West Ham at a time when racism was rife.

“It's fantastic to be in the same company as Bobby Moore, Sir Bobby Charlton and Geoff Hurst in being honoured by the Queen," he said.

“When you start off your career you never expect it."

The glory days are returning to West Ham’s Upton Park and today’s modern players should wish all the best to Clyde.

Published: 15 February 2006
Issue: 1205

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