This much loved former Hammer started his career at Tottenham Hotspur, but didn’t get further than the reserves. He was loaned out to a few other clubs and then, no doubt feeling as frustrated at Spurs as we often do, he moved to Glenn Hoddle’s Swindon Town in the 1991-92 season for £80,000.
Moncs was ever present in Swindon’s Premiership season, after helping them to promotion in their previous campaign. John became known for his determination and dogged displays and was a favourite amongst fans, but definitely not opposition players. Eric Cantona got so frustrated in one match when matched by Moncur that he stamped on his chest, ending in his instant dismissal.
Unfortunately for Swindon, the Robins got relegated at the end of the season. But this resulted in the Hammers swooping for the midfielder, signing him on a permanent deal for £1 million.
A classy midfielder with a hard edge, Moncur was often in the referee’s notebook but won fans over with his passion and passing range. Even better, his first goal for us came in October 1994 against London rivals Chelsea.
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Sadly, towards the end of his Hammers career Moncur was only really used as a substitute due to injuries. This didn’t dampen his passion or spirit, and even when sent off against Tottenham Hotspur in 1999, he raised his fists to the West Ham fans to fire them up. Like Titi Camara, he became a bit of a cult figure around the Boleyn Ground. Unlike Titi Camara, it was his playing skill and attitude that got him noticed.
Moncur’s last goal for the Irons came in the thrilling 5-4 victory against Bradford City, but his shirtless celebration meant that he was out of position when we conceded. I’m sure we’ll forgive him for that though!
Moncur ended his love affair with the Hammers after they were relegated in 2003, when he had completed 10 consecutive seasons in the Premiership. He retired from football completely, and his son George is now ready to break through from the West Ham Academy.
But what is John up to now? Well, apart from becoming a devout Christian, Moncs has set up a football and sports academy in Essex with 3 fellow Hammers as directors. They’ve even got an outdoor ice rink – what more could you want?!
It’s in Debden and also has boxing and tennis courts. so if not just for John himself, it’s probably worth a visit.
All together now:
He’s small
He’s hard,
He’ll get a yellow card,
He’s John Moncur
John Moncur…
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John Moncur was definitely noy ‘really only used as a substitute’- maybe he came off the bench towards the end of his career but please check how many of the 180 games he started.
Jonny please read the post. It states ‘sadly towards the end of his career’ so the author of this article is spot on as you even stated in your comment. Just enjoy the article 🙂 well said Kat, what a great man he was and fingers crossed George will be up there with him in the future!
Played over 20 times for Tottenham and was a big jessie. I think he must have re-invented himself when he left as he couldn’t tackle a fly at Spurs.
Never was a fan his ! Could be skilfull but lose posession too many times for me, which more than often resulted in goals against !!!!!
I remember the song going “Hes Here, Hes there, Hes every F***ing Where” We still use his name to describe the term average in day to day conversation.. “How last night mate?” “wel..it was a bit Jonny monc if im honest” haha