West Ham United Men's first team marked International Women's Day (IWD) by paying tribute to the inspirational women in their lives.
Celebrated on Wednesday 8 March, IWD marks the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, while also seeking to accelerate the push for gender equality.
In commemoration of the day, the men's senior side celebrated the impact of notable women from their own lives, wearing bespoke training tops with their respective names on the back ahead of the UEFA Europa Conference League round of 16 first leg tie with AEK Larnaca.
Fifteen members of the squad paid tributes to their mothers, including captain Declan Rice, Nayef Aguerd and Pablo Fornals. Striker Michail Antonio, meanwhile, picked out 23-time Grand Slam tennis champion Serena Williams as his inspirational figure.
Men’s captain Rice said: “Everyone in the squad was eager to mark International Women’s Day and recognise the contributions and achievements of the women in our lives and those who inspire us.
“Personally, I chose to put my mum’s name on the back of my shirt for training, showing my appreciation for all the time and effort she spent helping my two brothers and I become the men we are today. We will each always be forever grateful to her.
“I know the Club has a great commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion across every area of West Ham United, something the team and I wholeheartedly give our support to.”
The Hammers' all-time Premier League top-scorer Antonio added: “It was great to show our support for International Women’s Day. I could have chosen several inspirational women, but in the end, I picked Serena Williams as the name on my shirt for training.
“Serena was arguably the greatest tennis player of her generation, and really showed what you can do if you put your mind to something and believe in yourself. Her achievements speak for themselves really. She is such a talented individual.
“I managed to watch Serena play her sister, Venus, at Wimbledon a few years ago, and it was inspiring to see such a talented athlete in action. She’s a role model for a lot of athletes, fans and people everywhere.”
