Brian Belton Libros

Players, managers, directors and now even grounds come and go, but football supporters are always there. As such, football clubs do not belong to boards, chairmen or shareholders but to the fans. It is from this point of view, from the Boxer uprising, the two world wars, the 50's and CND, 60's London and the slump of the 80's and into the future, the irons of 2095, that the growth of West Ham United is viewed. Arthur Hopcroft wrote in 'The Football Man': Football has not been a sideshow of this century. What happens on the football field matters, not in a way that food matters, but as poetry does to some people and alcohol does to others' In Bubbles, Hammers and Dreams, this is essentially what Brian Belton has captured.

Focusing on the rich history of West Ham United, the book explores the origins of the club and the dedication of its players and fans, known as the iron-men of the past. It delves into the evolution of this fierce loyalty and the sense of community that has developed around the club, highlighting the deep connections between its supporters and the team throughout the years.

The young men who played in West Ham's FA Cup Final victory over Preston North End in 1964 were all born and raised in England. In each tie from the third round, only English players had worn the Hammers over their hearts. This title tells the tale of West Ham United's two 1960's cup winning teams that was made up entirely of English players.