Home / Sports / Clyde Best: Black Football Pioneer Endured Abuse, Inspired Generations
Clyde Best: Black Football Pioneer Endured Abuse, Inspired Generations
12 Mar
Summary
- Best left Bermuda at 17, facing significant racism in English football.
- He was West Ham's first black player to score over 50 goals.
- Bobby Moore and teammates bravely protected Best from threats.
Clyde Best, a pioneering black footballer, emigrated from Bermuda to England at 17, joining West Ham. He navigated the challenges of racism in English football, a significant hurdle for black players during his era. Best quickly rose through the ranks, becoming West Ham's first black player to score more than 50 goals, leaving a lasting impact.
His career at West Ham saw him play alongside legends like Bobby Moore. Best received support from his teammates, who once surrounded him protectively in response to a threat of acid being thrown. Despite facing monkey chants and anonymous warnings, Best's father's advice to 'carry yourself in a certain way' guided his dignified response.
Best's influence extended beyond his playing days. His groundbreaking achievements and resilience inspired future generations of black footballers, including Ian Wright and Viv Anderson. After leaving West Ham in 1975, he continued his career in the North American Soccer League, further solidifying his status as a trailblazer in the sport.
