Darren Bent has placed West Ham fourth in his ranking of London’s biggest football clubs, behind Tottenham but ahead of Crystal Palace.
The former England striker named Arsenal first and Chelsea second, with Spurs completing his top three.
However, his assessment also included praise for West Ham’s support and recognition of their European success.
Speaking on talkSPORT, in comments reported by Hammers News, Bent said: “In fourth, I have got West Ham.”
He added: “West Ham fans are everywhere.”
Darren Bent recognises West Ham’s European success
Bent referred to the Hammers’ recent European trophy and the distinguished players associated with the club’s history when explaining his choice.
West Ham’s 2023 Europa Conference League triumph remains a powerful part of that argument. Jarrod Bowen scored the late winner against Fiorentina as the Hammers secured a 2-1 victory in Prague.
The captain recently revisited the occasion, explaining why his dressing-room celebrations were delayed after the final.
Bent’s list is a personal assessment rather than a statistical ranking. Comparing the size of clubs depends on how much weight is given to trophies, support, history and recent results.
For West Ham supporters, the fourth-place verdict offers a clear point for debate: how should European success and the reach of the fanbase compare with the achievements of their London rivals?
Bent placed Tottenham above the Hammers, but his explanation still acknowledged the qualities that make West Ham significant within the capital’s football landscape.
