Has Karren Brady taken a step to redemption with West Ham fans after stadium development?

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It is fair to say vice-chairman Karren Brady is not the most popular person among West Ham United fans but is that about to change?

Some appreciate the sterling job she has done in turning around the club’s finances following the doomed Icelandic ownership.

Many even admire the undeniably outstanding deal she brokered for the rights to move to the former Olympic Stadium.

Whether West Ham fans like it or not Brady has played a key role in streamlining a club flirting with administration to the 17th richest in world football.

Brady has a lengthy rap sheet

But many more loathe the Apprentice TV star and feel she is to blame for ripping the soul out of the club.

Brady’s rap sheet in that regard is lengthy.

From broken promises over the move to Stratford to ill-judged comments about the club not having any ‘culture’ (Evening Standard).

Her column in The Sun where she often talks about intimate West Ham business and the goings-on at rival clubs is also a major bone of contention for supporters.

It even interfered with West Ham’s transfer plans. The Hammers want Islam Slimani in the January window.

But Brady upset late Leicester owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha with comments in her column and as a result he refused to do business with the East Londoners sending the Algerian to Newcastle instead.

Boos to cheers for Lady Brady?

But co-owner David Sullivan admitted earlier this year he is powerless to stop Brady continuing with the column.

Abuse has been directed at Brady during matches, particularly during the angry protests which marred last season.

Has Brady taken a step towards redemption with West Ham fans?

As bitter rivals Spurs edge closer to opening their amazing new 62,000 home there are envious glances from East London.

Close to the pitch and designed specifically for football it makes the London Stadium look even more inadequate.

But thanks to persistence from Brady West Ham will at least have the bragging rights over capacity.

66 and all that

The Hammers and landlords E20 this week agreed to plans to raise the capacity to 66,000.

The arrangement means that, subject to regulatory permissions, the club will be able to sell up to 60,000 tickets for their games as soon as possible and leaves scope to expand up to 66,000 seats for future matches.

West Ham already boast the second most season ticket holders in the Premier League behind Manchester United.

Now they will have the second biggest stadium too.

The London Stadium may be far from ideal for football. But an extra 9,000 fans will only help make it feel more like home.

In a joint statement with E20 on West Ham’s official website, Hammers vice-chairman Brady said: “West Ham United and E20 will now work together to maximise this magnificent Stadium for the benefit of fans, our community and the public purse. Both parties are fully committed to making the London Stadium the jewel in London’s crown that we all know it can be.”

Whether it is enough to get fans back on board remains to be seen.