‘Do it for my dad – he’s 87 and here again via the pub to watch my West Ham in a European final’ says David Moyes.
So here we are, the day has arrived as West Ham face Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League final in Prague.
So much is at stake and history is begging to be made for this group of Hammers stars.
The last – and only – time West Ham tasted European glory was in 1965, 58 years ago.
So very few in attendance at the Eden Stadium tonight will have been alive or have clear recollections of seeing Bobby Moore lift the European Cup Winners Cup.
One man who will is David Moyes senior.
Father and child stories the heartbeat of being a football fan
Just over one year ago Moyes told his West Ham stars to ‘do it for my dad’ as the Europa League final beckoned for the victors in Frankfurt. Last year Moyes declared: “I’m hoping I can give him a night to remember.”
But he and Aaron Cresswell ended up being sent off as emotions ran high during West Ham’s frustrating defeat.
Moyes has always cited his father, David senior, as his big inspiration and mentor in football.
The West Ham manager’s old man has had to watch his son endure some tough times in his career including this season.
And the pensioner was on the terraces in Holland when hero fan Knollsy and others beat away hooligans attempting to attack his section.
‘Do it for my dad – he’s 87 and here again via the pub to watch my West Ham in a European final’ says David Moyes
Now the boss hopes his team can do him proud as his ageing father once again goes over land and sea to watch his son’s side in one of the biggest games in their modern history.
‘Do it for my dad – he’s 87 and here again via the pub to watch my West Ham in a European final’ says Moyes.
“I think he’ll be in the pub!” Moyes said with a laugh when asked about his dad’s plans in Prague ahead of the big game.
“But no look, I’ve got a huge following of family. To be in this position is not only good for me but it’s something your family can celebrate as well. And I hope that they can.
“All of you who have got children and see your kids go on to be successful or doing something you can be proud of, for any father would be important.
“And my dad’s here tomorrow so hopefully I can get him something he will remember.”
We all certainly hope so too. Fortune can’t hide from West Ham and Moyes forever.
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