Alan Pardew has paid tribute to Ron Greenwood following the sad news of his death earlier today at the age of 84.
The current Hammers boss sadly never got to meet the man who led West Ham United to our first FA Cup success and European Cup Winners' Cup glory in the mid-60s, but is well aware of the legacy he left behind at Upton Park.
"Unfortunately, I never had the chance to meet Ron," says Alan, "but I know he was highly respected by everyone in the game and gave West Ham United and England fantastic service during his time as manager.
"Geoff Hurst has said that his coaching abilities and ideas were ahead of his time, and that his teams were always a joy to watch, and I know there are many other former players and supporters who would agree with that sentiment.
"His loss is a very sad occasion for the Club and I'm
sure all of our supporters will be eager to pay their respects to a
man who did so much to establish West Ham United as a great name in
English football."