Clyde Best: Pioneering the Path for Black Footballers in England

Clyde Best, born in Bermuda, demonstrated exceptional football talent from a young age. He began his career with local clubs Ireland Rangers and Somerset Trojans, eventually earning a spot on the Bermuda national team by age 15. His journey to West Ham United was facilitated by a recommendation from Bermuda's coach, Graham Adams, to West Ham manager Ron Greenwood. Upon arriving in London, Best faced immediate challenges, including navigating the city alone after landing. Fortunately, he was taken in by a local family connected to the club, which helped him settle in.

The Guardian

Best made his West Ham debut at 18, playing alongside notable teammates such as Geoff Hurst and Bobby Moore. His skills quickly established him as a key player, making him the first black footballer to score over 50 goals for the club. Best's impact extended beyond his performance on the pitch; he was part of a historic moment in 1972 when West Ham became the first English club to field three black players in a single starting XI, alongside Ade Coker and Clive Charles.

The Guardian

Despite his success, Best encountered significant racism during his career. He recalled instances of monkey chants from crowds and even received a threatening letter warning of an acid attack. In response, his teammates, led by Moore, took protective measures during matches, showcasing solidarity against the racial abuse Best faced. He emphasized the importance of maintaining composure in the face of such challenges, stating, “If I acted up all those years ago, how many black kids do you think would be playing football today?”

The Guardian

After a successful stint at West Ham, Best left the club in 1975, coinciding with their FA Cup victory. He joined the Tampa Bay Rowdies in the North American Soccer League, where he continued to excel, helping the team win the 1975 Soccer Bowl. Best's time in North America also included playing alongside Pelé, who famously referred to him as "the prince" after a match where both scored twice.

The Guardian

Clyde Best's contributions to football have left a lasting legacy, paving the way for future generations of black players in England. His story is celebrated in the film "Transforming the Beautiful Game: The Clyde Best Story," which highlights his journey and the challenges he overcame. Reflecting on his impact, Best expressed satisfaction in being remembered fondly by fans from the 60s and 70s, indicating that he indeed made a significant mark on the sport.

The Guardian

Best has often articulated his awareness of the responsibility he carried as a trailblazer for black footballers, stating, “I was always conscious of the responsibility. It never bothered me. I didn’t mind carrying the weight.” His experiences have become a crucial part of discussions surrounding racism in football, emphasizing the need for continued progress in the sport.

The Guardian

• “To want to take the acid for me … that’s unbelievable.” — Clyde Best

The Guardian

• “And I scored two. He came up to me after the game and said: ‘Clyde, I’m the king, you’re the prince.’ What better person to get it from? I was walking on air for a long time.” — Pelé

The Guardian

Clyde Best's journey not only highlights his personal achievements but also reflects the broader societal changes within football and the ongoing fight against racism in sports.

The Guardian