Premier League club West Ham United are mourning the loss of one of its greatest players after legendary captain Billy Bonds passed away at the age of 79.
Bonds, Hammers’ all-time appearance record-holder with 799 games, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning. A colossal figure in West Ham’s history, he captained the Hammers to two FA Cup triumphs in 1975 and 1980 and later managed the club.
His family confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement.
“We are heartbroken to announce that we lost our beloved dad today,” they said. “He was devoted to his family and was the most loyal, selfless, and loving person. Dad loved West Ham United and its wonderful supporters with all his heart… His legacy will live on forever.”
Bonds spent 21 years as a West Ham player from 1967 to 1988, winning four Hammer of the Year awards and receiving an MBE in 1988. He returned as manager between 1990 and 1994, securing promotion in his first season and guiding the Hammers back to the Premier League in 1993.
In tribute, West Ham said it was with “deep sadness and the heaviest of hearts” that they announced the passing of their “legendary player, coach and manager”.
“Rest in peace, Billy, our courageous, inspirational, lion-hearted leader,” the club said.
