An Ex-Everton Chief Lecturing West Ham On Our Badge? No Thanks

By Kris Gonzo | Senior West Ham Columnist (Follow on X)

Keith Wyness.

Ever heard of him?

Possibly not, unless you’re an Everton fan of a certain vintage, but the former Goodison chief executive has decided he’s got something to say about West Ham’s new badge.

Quite why a former Everton CEO is getting involved in West Ham business is anyone’s guess.

The ex-Goodison man, who now runs a consultancy advising elite clubs, popped up on Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast to warn the Hammers not to “play-act” over their crest consultation. Do it authentically, he says, or fans will “see straight through it.”

Mischief-Making From Merseyside

At best, Wyness is mischief-making by even hinting that the modern construct of West Ham ownership might replicate the errors made by Sullivan and Brady.

“It may have been different had it not been Sullivan and Karren Brady that were trying to tinker with the badge,” he offered.

On that, oddly enough, he’s not entirely wrong. The 2016 rebrand soured because of who was behind it and what it stood for… not because of a couple of crossed hammers on a shirt. But that ownership is on its way out of the door, not settling in for another go.

The fact is Wyness knows exactly which buttons he’s pressing.

We’ve Been Here Before – And We’re Fine

West Ham have been perfectly clear they will consult supporters on the new badge and crest. The Fan Advisory Board, season ticket holders, Claret Members and anybody who has darkened the turnstiles at the London Stadium… the lot.

I have every faith the final design will be well received by the majority of fans.

Not something that could ever be said about the current one.

So forgive me, cynical old me, if I don’t need a lecture on authenticity from a man whose old club has just waved goodbye to Goodison Park altogether.

For once, West Ham are actually listening to their supporters.

That’s rather the opposite of play-acting.

Stick to Everton, Keith.