West Ham Preview: Mark Noble’s farewell ride commences

The Betway Cup signifies the final preseason matchup for West Ham, meaning one thing. We must all prepare for the last chapter of Mark Noble.

This season is going to be massive on many different occasions. Firstly, the Hammers are back in Europe. Secondly, they are continuing to push on from last season’s successes. Thirdly, we will all be saying farewell to the Skipper that has been held close to our hearts for well over 17 years.

Last season gave us a minor glimpse of Mark Noble, as he only played in 25 matches for the club he’s been at forever. That number signifies the least amount of matches played during one season over his entire career. However, if you think this year will be more of the same, think again.

If this year’s preseason has taught us anything, it’s that he still has some life left in the tank. He might not be the same Canning Town youngster that many remember from a decade ago, but his drive, passion, and knowledge of the game have never faded. The Hammers have a steady pairing in the CDM role with Rice and Soucek but don’t expect Nobes to sit out his final campaign.

West Ham Preview: Mark Noble’s farewell ride commences

With a plethora of new matches coming West Ham’s way this year, it’s going to give the Hammers Skipper plenty of opportunity to shine one last time. He’s already shown that desire to, from taking the ball to the spot over Said Benrahma to then emphatically cheering Beni on after a wonder goal against Brentford. Mark Noble has been a man on fire so far this year.

With a lack of new signings coming in, and the West Ham midfield looking the same as last year, baring one or two players, Nobes is going to get a massive opportunity to close his playing career out with a bang. The team’s captain may have given the armband to Declan Rice, but expect him to be leading the club out for every single cup match and European night.

West Ham may not be known for doing things right, but when it comes to Mark Noble, it feels like they have always done a solid job. In that same notion, Mark Noble has done the same for the clubs. Whether it’s through Rice or Coventry or someone else, Mark Noble has done an excellent job preparing the next crop of future leaders so that his legacy lives on.

From the clock starting next weekend until the early weeks in May, expect Mark Noble’s final ride to one of joy, sadness, and just sheer fun. This isn’t going to be the last time West Ham fans see him either. Something tells me that we will all still be seeing him for years to come.