West Ham have led tributes to “lion-hearted leader” Billy Bonds, following the club legend’s death on Sunday.
Bonds is the Hammers’ all-time record appearance holder, playing 799 games during 21 seasons at the club.
As captain, he led West Ham to FA Cup glory in 1974 and 1980.
Bonds became West Ham manager in 1990, leading them to promotion to the First Division in 1991 and the Premier League in 1993.
In a heartfelt statement confirming the news, West Ham hailed their “courageous, inspirational, lion-hearted leader” and “one of the greatest competitors English football has ever seen”.
News broke on Sunday morning as Cole was on air, and the former Hammers star paid his respects to Bond.
Everything that's good about West Ham, Billy Bonds, that's him
Speaking on TNT Sports, Cole said: “Billy Bonds was manager when I signed as a kid. He was really kind to me and my family.
“Growing up at West Ham and knowing his name is synonymous with the club... everything that's good about West Ham, Billy Bonds, that's him.
“It's really sad news and thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen spoke ahead of the club’s Premier League visit of Liverpool. He said: “What he meant for this club, what he achieved for this club, it’s a sad day for everyone.
“I know the supporters will make noise for him today, which will be a good thing for his family, and our condolences go to them.
“He's probably going to go down as West Ham's biggest legend and the best club captain they've had as well. He achieved so much here and I’ll never emulate that success, but to put on the captain’s armband like he did is a big thing for me.”
Manager Nuno Espirito Santo added: “It’s sad, sad news for all of us at the club. From what I’ve been told because I didn’t have the chance to meet him, he represents everything that West Ham is all about – the fight, the desire that Billy Bonds had.
“My thoughts are with his family and with our fans, and let’s use this moment to honour Billy Bonds.”
Sinclair, another former West Ham star, who worked with Bonds at QPR, added that a “humble and great man he was” in a post on X.
“Sad to hear Billy Bonds has passed away today,” he wrote. “Met him when he joined QPR as a coach in the mid 90s [and] witnessed what a humble [and] great man he was. Condolences to his family [and] friends & his extended West Ham family.”
Former striker Tony Cottee wrote on social media: “Can’t believe the news about Bonzo. One of my heroes growing up, and I then had the pleasure of playing with him.
He's probably going to go down as West Ham's biggest legend and the best club captain they've had as well
“An incredible footballer, leader and captain, but above all else, a very humble and fantastic person. RIP Bill. I will miss you, mate.”
Bonds’ passing was announced after a statement from the Bonds family.
"We are heartbroken to announce that we lost our beloved dad today," the statement read.
"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."
