Triallist Ben Thatcher was heavily booed on his first appearance for West Ham at the Boleyn Ground yesterday afternoon.
The decision to offer a trial to the 32-year-old former Millwall and Tottenham player had been roundly condemned by supporters this week, with many questioning the wisdom of offering an opportunity to a player not considered good enough for Championship outfit Charlton, who released him at the end of last season.Hammers fans let both Alan Curbishley and the board know their feelings in no uncertain terms by booing Thatcher's name when read out ahead of Saturday's 1-1 draw with Villarreal and during the game. The player had a quiet game and was substituted after just 45 minutes to be replaced at left-back by club captain Lucas Neill.
Alan Curbishley, talking after the game revealed why he had brought Thatcher in.
We've a few injury niggles at the back and I am looking for some experienced cover," he said
"Ben is steady but he has a couple of clubs interested in him and I will have to have a think about it."
Thatcher, who has a history of being involved in violent incidents has been offered the chance to ressurrect his carrer as United's first-choice full-back, George McCartney, is still recovering from injury.
The Irishman's return date is currently unknown; the last communication from the club at the end of July insisted that he was back in full training along with Lee Bowyer, who has since made two appearances.
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