Nickname(s): The Hammers, The Irons
2008/2009 Position: 13th
2007/2008 Finish: 10th
Coach: Giancarlo Zola (Italy)
Stadium: Boleyn Ground (35,647 capacity)
Key Players: Matthew Upson, Carlton Cole, Robert Green
History:
West Ham first played in 1895 as Thames Waterworks. They have been in the top flight since 2005/2006. Carlos Tevez helped them escape relegation until he was dealt to Man U. His loss prior to last season could have hurt the Hammers, but instead they played consistent football and finished tenth. Americans should know our future leader, Barack Obama, is a Hammers’ fan. Let’s all hope he is consistent too.
They are chaired by a lad named Bjorgolfur Guomundsson, a billionaire from Iceland. Zola, their manager, was a legendary forward with Chelsea. This is his first managerial job, other than the Italian U-21 side. Zola was forced into the role when Alan Curbishley resigned following differences of opinion with the board. Zola should fare better since neither he nor Guomundsson will be able to understand one another.
It’s odd that the Hammers play in a stadium with the same name as a famously beheaded person. But then again, West Ham’s supporters are known for their violence and disrespect, often raining down negative chants during games. The film Green Street starring that little hobbitt Elijah Wood was about an American student who joins a Hammers hooligan firm. Let’s just say the team didn’t think much of it.
Legends: Bobby Moore, Trevor Booking, Billy Bonds
American Sports Doppelganger: The Minnesota Timberwolves
2008/2009 Prediction: 9th
