Mark Ward has been speaking about being back at the Boleyn Ground after taking part in a summer pitch event with the Boys of '86 and how he is looking forward to meeting Hammers fans at two upcoming events.
The former midfielder was delighted to be wearing the claret and blue again, having fond memories of the 1985/86 season when he played every one of the 42 league games as the team finished third. "I really enjoyed it," he told WHUTV. "I always look forward to meeting all the lads again. It has been fantastic to be with the players again.
"I didn't score many because Alan Devonshire and I were always making them for [Tony] Cottee and [Frank] McAvennie. My job was to be wide and provide but I would like to know how many assists Dev and I got that season. I played in every game.
Fans can get the chance to get up close and personal with Ward and three of his team-mates at Princes Theatre, Clacton on Friday 14 August 2009. Tony Gale will be hosting an evening with Devonshire, Ward and Phil Parkes. Tickets are only available from either the box office, in person or online by clicking here
Also on, Friday 28 August 2009 at Dagenham and Redbridge FC there is a dinner to be hosted by Gale, with Ward and Devonshire also in attendance for a special question and answer session. For more information, click here
Ward added: "I was in a fantastic team and I miss this place when I am not here. I came back for the last game against Middlesbrough and was made to feel so at home and the fans were brilliant. It was like coming home."