Billy Bonds
*Attending Saturday
Began his pro career with Charlton, making his debut against Northampton in February 1965. A hard-working full-back, Bonds quickly established himself as a
first-team regular and went on to make 95 league appearances for the Addicks over the next two years.
He was snapped up by West Ham in 1967 for £50,000 and continued to impress in defence, before Ron Greenwood made the decision to switch him to the centre of midfield
during the 1970-71 season. The move would prove a revelation, with Bonds' tireless work helping Trevor Brooking to express his creative talents to great effect.
Following the departure of Bobby Moore, Bonds was appointed captain and helped the Hammers to FA Cup glory in 1975. The following year he led his team to the European
Cup-Winners' Cup final, where they lost out to Anderlecht 4-2. Bonds was converted to a central defender soon after and suffered relegation at the end of the 1977-78
season, before leading West Ham to a shock FA Cup victory over First Division Arsenal in 1980.
He hung up his boots in 1984 but came out of retirement a year later before finally ending his playing days in 1988, with his last appearance coming at the age of 41. In
total making 663 appearances for West Ham
