West Ham travel to Blackburn on Sunday and it might even feel like a home game! Sunday’s hosts have had an average attendance of 13,752 at Ewood Park in the Championship this season. Yet there will be 7,200 West Ham fans making the 500-mile round trip with tickets into the away end.
This is just one of many examples why West Ham supporters are amongst the best in the country.
Every time I’m with a group of West Ham fans, whether it be at the Boleyn Ground, at a pub or on the road, I always feel at home. From the travel up to a match, through to the final whistle and beyond, West Ham fans show support and passion that is always a privilege to be around. There’s something special about feeling part of the family, regardless of gender, race or sexuality you’re a Hammer first and foremost.
On the pitch Slaven Bilic has made no secret of the importance that the FA Cup is going to play in West Ham’s season, the supporters have echoed his thoughts and are now showing it with their physical presence.
From the outside you may look at a February fixture against Championship opposition as far from glamorous, especially when there’s still four victories between all the sides and cup glory. However, West Ham fans are excited about their team again - me included. I think many of us would watch Dimitri Payet play for West Ham anytime anywhere.
There are of course no guarantees in football and this is never more true than in the FA Cup which is famously one for the underdogs to flourish. Regardless of this fact you can be sure that the Hammers fans will support the team with fresh witty chants and friendly banter, win lose or draw.
There’s a new found passion and belief developing around the club and this fixture, as well as the fact that all games at Upton Park are selling out almost immediately week-in week-out proves just that.
Thank you for your support. Do our club proud!
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of West Ham United
Were you part of the Hammers' massive travelling supports at Manchester United in 2001, Wigan in 2004, Coventry in 2011 or are you heading to Blackburn on Sunday? Share your stories and pictures on social media using the #ClaretAndBlueArmy hashtag!