In the same week that Billy Bonds has been honoured by West Ham, Manuel Pellegrini has given his views on what Hammers history could say of Mark Noble.
The three Irons giants who tower over our last near 100 years have to be Bobby Moore, Trevor Brooking and Billy Bonds.
But in terms of loyalty and commitment Mark probably stands alongside them although not even he would put himself on the same level as a player.
His influence around the dressing room is also incredible and few will have seen any player with such love and passion for his chosen club.
And it’s right that his present manager – in such a momentous week for Billy – should draw attention to the midfielder who has devoted his entire career to the club and is currently four games away from 400 appearances (Wiki).
The manager was cautious as ever not to go too far over the top in his assessment of the player but clearly has huge respect for him saying: “I don’t think that you could compare [Mark with Billy]
“Mark Noble is our captain. He made his complete career here at West Ham. Probably he will finish here also. After he retires, the Club must decide what he deserves but in the history of West Ham, Mark will be an important player also.
“Important players and experienced players are players that know this profession and are always helping everyone – managers, their teammates, the dressing room. That’s why they are leaders.
“Mark also is always talking with all his teammates. As a manager, I always talk with the squad and I give the direction in the way we must work and play. After that, the leaders in the squad have the responsibility to direct young players in the same way.”
“I never like comparing because they are different years, different clubs, different seasons,” said the Chilean. “Just as you cannot compare Pele with Maradona with Messi in international football.
“They are different times. Both of them are very important players when they play for West Ham. Mark must be focused on the next year, to continue to win and improving what he has done for this Club. He has done a lot of things, but he is just 31 and has a lot more history to write for this Club.
“That’s why he is one of the most important players along with Billy, Trevor Brooking and Bobby Moore.”
I think we should ask Bubbles if he can contribute to a brass statue of Nobes (only joking Bubbles)
No surprise Pelle has recognised the importance of Noble to the team. The likes of Bubbles will just pipe down for now and wait for their moment when Nobes eventually has a bad game or he gets too old to kick a ball. Whichever comes first.