Ray Stewart (1979-1991)

Photo: Frank Baron
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In this Picture: Frank Lampard, Ray Stewart (Penalty), Trevor Brooking and Stuart Pearson (Ray scored 84 goals, all but six being penalties)

Name: Ray Stewart (full name: Raymond Struan McDonald Stewart)

Date of Birth: 7 September 1959 (alive as of latest records)

Place of Birth: Stanley, Perthshire, Scotland

Nationality: ScottishPosition: Defender (primarily right-back)

Date Joined Club: August 1979

Date Left Club: 1991

Appearances for West Ham: Over 430 competitive matches (including 345 in the league)

Total Goals Scored: 84 (mostly from penalties)

Nicknames: Tonka

Trophies (West Ham only):

• 1980 FA Cup winner

Ray Stewart rose from a modest Scottish village to become one of West Ham United’s most reliable defenders in the late 1970s and 1980s. Signed as a teenager from Dundee United for a substantial fee of £430,000 in 1979, he quickly impressed with his strong tackling, leadership, and exceptional dead-ball ability. His composure from the penalty spot and powerful shooting made him a unique threat from the right-back position.

In his very first season, Stewart played a vital role in West Ham’s surprise 1980 FA Cup triumph, contributing crucial goals during the run to Wembley. He remained a consistent performer throughout the decade, starring in the club’s memorable 1985-86 campaign that saw them finish third in the league. Fans loved his durability and nicknamed him “Tonka” for his tough, indestructible style. He earned ten caps for Scotland during this period.

Injuries, especially a serious knee problem in 1989, affected his later years at Upton Park before he departed in 1991. After retiring, he moved into management with Scottish clubs including Livingston, Stirling Albion, and Forfar Athletic. Stewart is remembered as a cult hero at West Ham for his penalty expertise, loyalty, and tenacity – a shining example of how determination can elevate a player from humble roots to club legend.

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