West Ham pay tribute to David Gold as Noble lays wreath with late co-chairman's family

Mark Noble laid a wreath on the London Stadium pitch and then stood alongside Gold's family on the touchline as supporters paid their respects to the boss.

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Gold sadly passed away at the age of 86 on January 4 following a short illness.

Born in Stepney and raised not far from the club's former Boleyn Ground home, Gold was a lifelong Hammers fan and took over the east London club, along with David Sullivan, in 2010.

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The Hammers chief died surrounded by his family, with daughters Jacqueline and Vanessa and his fiancée Lesley by his side.

They were back at the London Stadium on Saturday to take part in a moment of remembrance for Gold before the game - West Ham's first at home since his death - as images of Gold were shown around the stadium on the big screens.

As well as the wreath laid by former captain Noble, there were other flower tributes to the businessman, as players from both teams lined up to join in with the fans' applause.

The club also devoted the front of their matchday programme to the chief, who was a well-loved figure by those associated with the club and who built strong relationships with the West Ham players.

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One of those was former Hammers striker Carlton Cole, who told talkSPORT following Gold's passing that he was seen as a grandfather figure by many at the club.

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"He had empathy - he was like your normal grandad, would want you to win in life," Cole said.

"He knew the rules as well. You work hard, you play hard, you will get rewarded for that.

"He always had his arm around me if he felt I was in a low place. Trying to lift your spirits, especially if he did like you.

"He was a great person, great guy, and did a lot for the club."

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It appears that feeling also extended to players at Birmingham City, where Gold was chairman before his joint takeover of West Ham.

Former Blues striker Clinton Morrison wrote on social media following news of his death: "Such sad news, RIP David.

"He looked after me and my family when I signed for Birmingham City, and made me feel welcome at the club.

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"Such a nice guy sending thoughts and prayers to his family and friends."