Billy Bonds: West Ham legend dies aged 79 as London side pays tribute to 'courageous, inspirational, lion-hearted leader'

His death was confirmed by West Ham in a statement from his family. The statement 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.”

Bonds is said to have died peacefully at home on Sunday morning. A cause of death has not been announced.

The former player made a staggering 799 appearances for West Ham over 21 seasons at the club from 1967 until 1988. Bonds captained his side and led them to two FA Cup wins and a Second Division title during his time at the Hammers.

Following his playing retirement, Bonds returned to coach West Ham United in 1990. His tenure lasted until 1994.

Bods’ impact on the London-based club was unmistakable, with a stand at the London Stadium named in his honour when the team moved from Upton Park in 2016. He was also presented with the club’s first ever Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013 and was voted by fans as West Ham United’s greatest-ever player in 2018.

West Ham has confirmed that there will be a “period of appreciation” for Bonds ahead of today’s home fixture against Liverpool. The club added: “Rest in peace Billy, our courageous, inspirational, lion-hearted leader.”

Tributes have flowed in from heartbroken fans. One Irons fan said on social media: “Gutted to hear this,Got the chance to meet him. Such a nice man and a legend.”

Another added: “Legend is a word used far too often nowadays, but one that absolutely applies to Billy. Absolutely gutted that such a huge part of West Ham’s history is no longer with us. Fantastic player, even better person. RIP Billy.”