Claret and Hugh understand that negotiations are underway over the possibility of playing Glasgow Rangers in a pre-season friendly at the London Stadium regardless of the division West Ham find themselves in.
The Hammer played Rangers in the 1979 Tennent Caledonian Cup Semi Final, a game won by Rangers 3-2 at Ibrox Park.
Their manager, Stevie Gerrard was once rumoured to be a possible replacement for Manuel Pellegrini before David Moyes rejoined the Hammers. He is best remembered for breaking West Ham fans hearts in 2006 in the FA Cup final when he scored a crucial equaliser at the end of normal time.
Later in his autobiography, Gerrard would write: “It really moved me that in their hour of utter desolation, West Ham fans stayed behind to applaud as I lifted the FA Cup. I’ll never forget that sporting gesture. I’m Liverpool through and through, head to toe, but I have a place in my heart for West Ham supporters after Cardiff.
Fans like West Ham United’s make football special. Usually, when we do a lap of honour with a cup, the opponents’ section is empty. The fans have disappeared, dragging their heartache with them. Not in Cardiff on 13 May 2006.
The West Ham fans were tremendous, clapping us as we paraded the cup. Both sets of fans were brilliant, which made it such a terrific occasion.”
As a wee boy back in 1979 my dad took me to Ibrox to see the mighty Hammers take part in the Tennent Caledonian Cup against Rangers. Unfortunately Rangers won 3-2. I still have the match programme somewhere up in the loft.
I like Gerrard, and would have no problem at all with him using West Ham as a stepping stone towards his ultimate goal of managing Liverpool one day. He’s always seemed class to me, both on and off the field. No player is going to disrespect a former pro that achieved what he did.
He’s right, we are special – whether we win or lose, we’ve never been entitled and always appreciate any team that entertains, irrespective of whether we win or lose. Recognising that is a nice touch.