Led by England captain Bobby Moore, West Ham were the first side made up entirely of English players to win a major international trophy. From its earliest days, the club has sought foreign competition, which culminated in 1965 when the Hammers won the European Cup Winners' Cup at Wembley. This victory has remained the club's highest achievement in international competition, but it was also a seminal moment prior to England's achievements the following year. This volume details West Ham's playing record in Europe, including breakdowns of players, goal scorers, and stadiums. While other football clubs have achieved more in terms of silverware, on the international stage no other team can match the vitality, personality, and charisma as the Irons. Thoughout the club's history, the boys from London's East End fought, learnt about, and taught football across the world. They Nearly Reached the Sky: West Ham United in Europe explores the Hammers' journey to world renown. Told with the passion of a lifelong fan and illustrated with striking images (many not previously published), this is the story about the places, people, and times of West Ham's continuing rampage across the continent, breaking ground, records, and hearts wherever they go.

Book jacket.