Clive Charles

West Ham United was saddened to hear of the death of former player Clive Charles last week.

Clive sadly passed away at the age of 51, following a long battle with cancer, at his home in Portland, Oregon in the United States. He lives a widow, Clarina, and two children.

Younger brother of John, who also played for the club and died last year, full-back Clive made 15 appearances for West Ham in the early 70s, but was never able to claim a regular first team place ahead of Frank Lampard and John McDowell.

In 1974, he was transferred to Cardiff City, where he made history by becoming the first black player to captain a Football League club.

Until his ill health prevented him, he was still coaching the boys and girls of Portland University soccer teams and in 2001 was a coach to the USA Olympic squad.

He made a recent trip to England, where he was visited by former team-mates Brian Dear, Harry Redknapp and Frank Lampard.

Our sincere condolences go to Clive's family and friends.