West Ham United have reportedly ditched plans which would have made the London Stadium feel more like home.
The Hammers endured a difficult first season at the former Olympic Stadium, winning just seven league games at their new home on their way to an 11th place finish.
West Ham’s big move from their beloved Boleyn Ground home of 112 years was beset by issues on and off the pitch initially although the supporter experience, on the whole, did improve as the season wore on.
Many supporters bemoaned the fact the ground simply did not feel like West Ham’s home despite a certain level of West Ham-ification.
So fans were enthused to hear that the garish green astroturf which surrounded the pitch to cover the running track last season would be replaced by a claret one this term, as reported by well-placed fans site Claret and Hugh back in May.
According to C&H, the club pledged to invest over £200,000 to replace the green astroturf to claret which they felt would have a ‘massive visual impact’.
The carpet was due to be laid following the athletics world championships but the Daily Mail are now reporting that is not the case.
“West Ham signage and branding around the stadium will also be returning after it was temporarily taken away,” the report states.
According to reports claret carpet will not be installed at the London Stadium
“Contrary to reports, there are currently no plans to have a claret-coloured carpet fitted over the running track at a cost of £200,000 to the club. With talks to be held, it is likely to be green again.
“Construction workers are currently working daily to get the venue ready for Monday night football with Huddersfield on September 11.”
Most fans will only care about what they see on the pitch from Slaven Bilic’s side this season.
But some will be disappointed further West Ham-ification will not take place, particularly given the Hammers have been forced to play their first four games away from home due to the athletics, despite previously being promised Bilic’s side would always take priority at the ground.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
