It was the summer of 2019 when Marko Arnautović departed West Ham United, meaning Austrian Irons went nearly six years without watching one of their own in Claret and Blue.
So, when Austria international Verena Hanshaw joined West Ham United women’s team in January 2025, it’s no wonder they wanted to send something over to east London to celebrate.
The country's Official Supporters’ Club, who formed in 2011, sent one of their ‘Austrian Irons’ shirts to Chadwell Heath training ground for the left-back, who was delighted to receive the special gift.
“[We sent Verena the shirt] out of appreciation,” said Denis Dusika, one of the founding members of Austrian Irons. "The link of having an Austrian player play for West Ham United is an honour for Austria, for us as a fan club. We ordered some merchandise for our fan club, and we thought it would be a nice idea to order an extra one to send over to Verena.
“We haven’t had many [Austrian players] at West Ham. We had Emanuel Pogatetz, which was some time ago, and then Marko Arnautović had a big impact, winning Hammer of the Year in 2018. We were really gutted when he left. So, when Verena signed, we were looking forward to it (her playing for West Ham)!
“I hope she liked the shirt! Now Verena has joined, it feels the balance has been restored. It’s great to see the flag represented again back on the pitch.”
Hanshaw became the third Austrian to play for the east Londoners when she joined from AS Roma and was ever-present throughout the second half of last season, making 12 appearances across all competitions, and has already featured five times this term.
With more than 100 caps for her country, Hanshaw is currently away on international duty, preparing to compete in a crucial UEFA Women’s Nations League promotion/relegation play-off tie with Czechia, and she will carry the spirit of the Claret and Blue Army in Austria with her on her endeavors.
“I didn’t expect it at all (to receive the shirt)!” she beamed. “It was such a nice surprise. To see they're supporting me whatever happens is a really nice feeling.
“I was more than happy to send back a photo of me with the shirt. It means a lot and I really appreciate it.
“I’m always very proud to get called up and I’m super excited for the two Nations League games. They are very important games for us, as we need to win them to stay in League A. That’s our goal. I hope as a team we can get the wins we need.”
Since their formation, Austrian Irons have grown to around 60 members, who have been brought together by their undeniable love for the Hammers. Some are season ticket holders, but the majority all descend on The Tube Station pub in Vienna, owned by former Ilford resident Barry Stevens, to watch West Ham games.
“It’s a place where we connect, share the passion and where you don't feel alone,” Dusika continued. “It feels quite strange shouting, ‘Come On You Irons’ around Vienna on your own!
“We’re planning a party next summer to celebrate 15 years as a group. It will be nice in the summer because we'll have the beer gardens open, and we can have some cocktails outside and have a sing song!”
For more information about Austrian Irons, click HERE.
