WEST HAM have unveiled a snazzy retro commemorative strip – and it is sure to get Hammers fans anything but hot under the collar!
The smart polo shirt-like design by Umbro was inspired by the Hammers‘ forerunners Thames Ironwork FC and will make its debut in Sunday’s Betway Cup game against Juventus at the Olympic Stadium.
The navy blue strip features a Union Jack, with a nod to Thames Ironwork FC through the initialling T.I.W.F.C.
While the Hammers are not expected to use the kit during their Premier League campaign, they will use it during their FA Cup run – having gone out last season in a sixth-round replay to Manchester United as Marcus Rashford struck a brilliant solo goal.
The limited edition design is said to be inspired by the all-blue kit worn by Thames Ironwork in the 1890s.
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Arnold Hills founded the club in 1895 and before it was dissolved in 1900, later becoming West Ham United.
The move from to the Olympic Stadium to the Boleyn Ground is seen as an extension of his vision for the now Claret and Blue outfit.
Hammers sponsors Betway have released a YouTube clip giving fans a first glimpse of the fresh design, with the caption ‘history prepared’, as Hills’ story is aired as its narration.
It shows clips from the end of last season before footage of club legends Bobby Moore and Paolo Di Canio.
It ends with club skipper Mark Noble unveiling the shirt alongside striker Andy Carroll and left-back Aaron Cresswell – who is set for four months out injured after damaging knee ligaments in the pre-season win over Karlsruher.
The Hammers played their first competitive game on Thursday night but went down 2-1 to Slovenian outfit NK Domzale in the third qualifying round of the Europa League.
This Thursday’s second leg will see them make their bow at their new Olympic Stadium home, with the new kit making its maiden outing for Juve’s visit on Sunday.
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