The Recorder reviews the latest West Ham book from John Northcutt.

West Ham United in the League Cup’

by John Northcutt

�10

order at

www.soccerdata.com

With memories still fresh of that dismal Carling Cup semi-final capitulation in Birmingham back in January, perhaps a book on West Ham’s history in the competition is not the best timed tome.

Nevertheless, experienced West Ham author John Northcutt has taken on the task and includes a report on every game the Hammers have played in the competition since its inception back in 1960.

That year seems to have been the benchmark of things to come – they lost 3-2 at Darlington in round two!

Since then they have managed seven semi-finals and two finals and Northcutt includes them all, including the latest semi disaster.

Also included is a full list of League Cup appearances and goals and the programme cover and a brief report on every match, though it is disappointing they are all in black and white.

The appendix is hampered by typographical errors and unfortunately that gives the impression of a book being thrown together rather too quickly.

It does have its merits, but perhaps this book is really only for the most statistical minded West Ham fans.

Dave Evans