Nearly Reached the Sky: West Ham United 1989-2005

"Nearly Reached the Sky" is the definitive, must-have modern-day history of West Ham United Football Club. Having written for "Hammers News Magazine" for nearly two decades, Steve Blowers leaves no stone unturned in an intriguing, insider's view of events at Upton Park from the moment that loyal John Lyall was dismissed in June 1989 through to the 2005 play-off final victory. Embarking on a comprehensive, memory-jogging 16-season see-saw journey across some 200 players, six managers, three promotions, two relegations and a European sojourn, "Nearly Reached the Sky" weaves together the observations of all the major characters and commentators, exploring just how close the club came to achieving its own tangible success during those turbulent times down West Ham way. And after seeing the dreams fade and die following relegation, the loss of Hammers' seasoned professionals and the exodus of their golden crop of coveted youngsters, "Nearly Reached the Sky" then charts the priceless return to the Premiership.