West Ham United: The Elite Era 1958-2009

West Ham United's elite era began in 1958, when the Hammers secured their place in the top division of English football. Since then it has been a rocky ride. The team has dropped divisions from time to time, but always risen again. Even among the elite, West Ham have seldom shone, other than in occasional Cup finals. Indeed, it is necessary to back to 1985-86 to find the last season they scored more goals than they conceded in the top flight. Who better to guide us in this exploration of West Ham's elite era than the club's official historian, John Helliar? Each season is examined in detail, assisted by the author's immense knowledge. He also provides an account of what he considers to be the Match of the Season, every season.