“Billy Bonds epitomised everything that West Ham United Football Club stands for. Honesty, integrity, commitment, courage and character. He was a gentleman off the pitch and a warrior on it”Another former West Ham United captain, Mark Noble, pays tribute to Hammers great Billy Bonds Billy BONDS (1946-2025)
Billy Bonds embodied the ethos of West Ham United, admired for his determination, leadership and loyalty. He began his playing career at Charlton Athletic, making his league debut in1965, before being sold to West Ham for £47,000 two years later. He made a club record 799 appearances (61 goals), initially at right-back and then in the so-called “silk and steel” midfield alongside Trevor Brooking. Bonds captained the Hammers to FA Cup success in1975 and 1980 then, as manager, led them to promotions in1991…
