West Ham United's decision to retire Bobby Moore's number six shirt fifteen years after his death has been criticised by a number of supporters.
The club's decision to retire the shirt often worn by Moore was revealed at the weekend, since when a number of supporters have questioned the timing and reasons behind it.Twice before fans have urged the club to retire the number six shirt, but on both occasions - first in 1993 following Moore's death, then again seven years ago following a concerted effort - those pleas were rejected by the club's previous administration.
However the club have now decided to act in order to mark 50 years since Moore's first team debut. United CEO Scott Duxbury told whufc.com:
"When we were talking about ways to mark 50 years since Bobby Moore's debut, there was only one true gesture that would do him justice - retiring the No6 shirt he made his own.
With the launching of the Bobby Moore Cup and the partnership with the fund in his name as well, he will be a part of this club for generations to come. Whenever fans think of West Ham United, they will think of Bobby Moore."
West Ham United have been heavily criticised over the years for refusing to work with Moore after he left the club in 1974. The World Cup winning hero, who spent 16 years at the Boleyn at a first team player was forced to work as a pundit for radio in his final years - something many supporters have never forgiven the club for.
One supporter, talking on KUMB's forum this weekend said:
"Why retire a number? It's a stupid move as far as I'm concerned. I still don't like squad numbers and this is just another American habit we don't neeed.
"People should be happy and proud to claim the number six shirt at West Ham. It is a shame he just wasn't looked after by the club when he was alive."
Whilst another added:
"If this were to be done it should have been done when the great man died, not 15 years down the line. Because of that, this seems like a bit of an hollow act.
"We, and most of football, know and recognise just how good Bobby Moore was. It doesn't need this to show that."
However some fans were supportive of the idea; one stating:
"About time. He was the most legendary player to wear the claret and blue and this is a fitting tribute."
* Current number 6 Matthew Upson will wear the number 15 shirt this season. Those supporters who have pruchased a replica shirt with Upson's name and current number are advised to contact the club in order to arrange for a replacement.
* Something to say about this story? Please visit the KUMB Forum to leave a comment.
