West Ham joint-chairman David Gold has died aged 86 following a short illness, the club has confirmed.
The lifelong Hammers fan, who took charge in January 2010 alongside business partner David Sullivan, helped oversee the club s transition from a Premier League also-ran to a European contender.
Under Gold, the club earned sixth and-seventh-place finishes over the past two seasons, and reached the semi-finals of the Europa League last year.
In a statement, manager David Moyes paid tribute to Gold, who also played as a schoolboy for the club during his youth.
I am extremely sad to hear this news, he said. On behalf of all of the players and my staff at the training ground, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to David Gold s family at this very difficult time.
It was clear that he had a genuine and sincere love for the club and was a true supporter at heart. He will be greatly missed.
It is with deep sadness that West Ham United FC confirm that Joint-Chairman David Gold passed away peacefully this morning following a short illness.
— West Ham United (@WestHam)
Sullivan also paid his respects, adding: Of all our joint ventures, none gave us more pride and happiness than the day we took ownership of West Ham United.
David had a long-standing connection with the Hammers, having grown up opposite the Boleyn Ground in Green Street.
He always wanted what was best for West Ham United, and his passing is a great loss for all of us.
The club confirmed a further tribute would take place in due course, with the Hammers due to travel to fellow strugglers Leeds United on Wednesday.
