Relive West Ham’s Greatest Era
Inside John Lyall’s Golden Years
In the annals of English football, few eras evoke as much affection and pride as the John Lyall years at West Ham United. “They Played for John Lyall: The West Ham Years” by Tim Crane is a meticulously researched tribute to the golden age of the Hammers. With exclusive interviews, personal stories, and moving reflections, the book transports readers to the heart of Upton Park, where classic FA Cup finals and breathless European nights under floodlights shaped the legacy of both club and manager. As Lyall steered West Ham through an era of high-calibre football and memorable silverware, his commitment to honesty, endeavour, and loyalty ensured an indelible impact on generations of supporters and players alike.
Central to the book’s appeal is the nostalgia of unforgettable victories—the 1975 and 1980 FA Cup wins, and the European exploits that put the East End club on the continental map. Through in-depth interviews with 77 former Hammers, Crane reveals the camaraderie and resilience behind each campaign, offering rare insights into the personalities who helped define the John Lyall era. These stories not only resonate with fans of classic English football but serve as a masterclass in sportsmanship and the beautiful game’s enduring values.
John Lyall’s managerial reign began in August 1974 against Everton, marking the start of a 15-year odyssey that nurtured talent and shaped club culture. Before stepping into the managerial hot seat, Lyall served diligently behind the scenes, working his way up after injury had ended his playing career. His ability to motivate, to bring out the best in both established stars and promising youth, transformed West Ham into a team admired throughout English football for their playing style and club spirit.
This captivating book stands as a definitive record of West Ham United’s last truly trophy-laden period. It brings to life the sense of family that John Lyall fostered, paints a vivid picture of matchdays at Upton Park, and reminds readers why the club’s traditions and stories still hold such sway. “They Played for John Lyall” is essential reading for football supporters, historians, and anyone seeking inspiration from one of the most respected managers in the history of the English game.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48
Published: November 30, 2017
Price: £29.99
Hardback: 376 pages
ISBN-13: 9780993028618
Dimensions: 246 x 189 (mm)
