Everyone at West Ham United has been saddened by the passing of former West Ham United Academy of Football player Adam King at the age of 55.
King attended the Football Association's School of Excellence. While attending the School, he finished as England U16s’ leading scorer in 1985/86 with six goals in ten caps, netting in wins over Denmark, Algeria and a hat-trick in a 4-0 victory over Tunisia that clinched victory at a tournament played in France.
In January 1986, aged 16, King scored in West Ham's FA Youth Cup third-round tie against Tottenham Hotspur. He also played in the Irons' South East Counties League team four times that season.
He signed apprentice terms with the Hammers in July 1986 and was capped by England U17s in a 3-3 draw with Sweden at The Hawthorns in November of the same year. A regular scorer for the Irons’ reserve team, he signed his first professional contract with the Club in May 1988.
King departed east London at the age of 20 in 1990 and joined Plymouth Argyle, where he played alongside future West Ham player and current Academy Manager Kenny Brown.
After making 17 appearances for the Pilgrims, who were then in the Second Division, King returned to London to join Isthmian League club Hendon. He also wore the colours of Bristol Rovers and Northern Irish club Ballymena United.
Former Academy Director Tony Carr MBE, who coached King during his time at West Ham, paid tribute to his former player, whose son Toby was also on the Academy of Football's books.
“Adam was an excellent youth-team player and attended the FA School of Excellence Lilleshall,” said Carr. “He joined West Ham United after leaving the FA School as an apprentice professional and was a free-scoring striker and a popular member of the youth team.
“He gained England youth international honours but unfortunately did not a make a first team appearance.
“Adam joined Plymouth Argyle after leaving us and was at Plymouth at the same time as Kenny Brown, I believe.
“He will be sadly missed by all who knew him and send his family my deepest condolences.”
The thoughts of everyone at West Ham United are with Adam’s family and friends at this sad time.
