A real hero

by Len Wilcock
(London)

Billy Bonds was simply the best uncapped player I've seen in over 40 years of watching the game.
Full back, Central midfielder, Centre half and even on occasion in his early days at West Ham, a Right Winger.
The possessor of a powerful shot, strong and fierce in the tackle and with better technique than he was ever given credit for, Bonds would undoubtedly have been an England regular in the modern day.
The story is that Sir Alf Ramsey didn't select him because he didn't like his "gait" when he ran, UNBELIEVABLE. But why Revie never selected him was a mystery to many.
As a Captain he led by example in every aspect. In his fitness, attitude, commitment to the cause and his all round ability he commanded the utmost respect from all those around him.
Off the field he was the total opposite to his on field character. Quiet, un-assuming, reserved. Just a straight forward bloke.
Billy was a genuine hero to me and every other West Ham fan and to name what I thought was his greatest performance would be difficult, but the 0-0 draw in the League Cup quarter final v Forest in 79-80 and the FA Cup Semi final replay v Everton at Elland Road in the same season are the 2 that immediately stand out.
His transfer value in this day and age would be extremely high as he would be in great demand.
All in all, Billy was a true, if unheralded in many quarters, great of the game. We may never see such a player in this country again.