He really is one of us, isn’t he?
Again, Mark Noble cut an emotional figure, although this time it was tears of happiness as West Ham United secured a historical European triumph.
A first piece of major silverware since a FA Cup win in 1980 came courtesy of Jarrod Bowen’s late winner in a 2-1 victory over Fiorentina in Prague. A goal that etched his name in Hammers folklore and sent Irons everywhere - including the sporting director - dancing into the night, singing loud and proud, and celebrating a memorable UEFA Europa Conference League triumph.
“I feel so blessed to be part of it,” Noble enthused, amidst the celebrations and confetti at Eden Aréna.
“In one of my first interviews when I became sporting director, I said that I want to win the FA Youth Cup and stay in the league, and I really believed we could win this competition. And normally, at West Ham, it doesn’t always happen."
Noble, of course, knows that more than any. The former Club skipper-turned-sporting director made 550 senior appearances across 18 years of magnificent service in a Claret and Blue shirt. In that time, he tasted relegation, heartbreak and triumph. The 2012 Play-off final. But nothing like this.
“It’s just pure emotion,” Noble stated. “Just being part of nights like this is so special. All of the stuff that goes on behind the scenes, the hard work, the graft. It really is amazing.”
The sporting director's role off the field has been clear over the past months. Since returning to the Hammers in January, Noble has been a presence around Rush Green Training Ground.
He has travelled with the first team and played his part as the Under-18s lifted the FA Youth Cup earlier this year - and secured the U18 Premier League South Division title.
One player has perhaps been guided more than any by Noble, in Declan Rice. From a fresh-faced Academy prospect to one of the best defensive midfielders on the planet, Noble was immensely proud as he watched his mate follow in the footsteps of Irons legends Billy Bonds and Bobby Moore and lift a major trophy.
“It couldn’t happen to a nicer fella,” Noble said. “I am so proud of him. I know his family so well. And I can’t praise him enough. With Dec, it is different. It goes a bit further.
“But it is not just about today. Today is the pinnacle; it’s from years and years of hard work. There has been a lot of failure, a lot of hard work, and a lot of tears. But that is why we love the Club because West Ham is West Ham, and you never know what is around the corner. Nights like this are really special!”
