Hammers look to reward teary fan

West Ham are hoping to give a young supporter and his family the chance to watch a match in the club’s director’s box after the child was spotted crying by TV cameras during their 5-0 drubbing at the hands of Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup third round on Sunday.

A statement on West Ham’s website read: “Sunday afternoon’s defeat at Nottingham Forest was tough for all to take, but particularly for one tearful young man in the away end.

“Everyone at West Ham United shares this young man’s disappointment and are grateful for the large numbers of fans that made the trip to the City Ground.

“To show the club’s appreciation for the travelling Claret and Blue army, the board, manager and captain would like to offer this young fan and his family a chance to watch an upcoming fixture at the Boleyn Ground from the directors’ box.”

Sunday’s defeat increased the pressure on Sam Allardyce but the beleagured manager has been given the support of the club’s co-chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold in an open letter published on the Hammers’ website.

“We know Sam has not lost his ambition or desire and is committed to making West Ham United a great Premier League club,” the open letter read.