The
1931–32 season was West Ham's eighth season in the
First Division since their promotion in
season 1922–23. The club were managed by
Syd King.
Season summary
As a warm-up to the season West Ham completed a three match unbeaten tour of
Switzerland
). Swiss law does not designate a ''capital'' as such, but the federal parliament and government are installed in Bern, while other federal institutions, such as the federal courts, are in other cities (Bellinzona, Lausanne, Luzern, Neuchâtel ...
and began the season with their first ever win at
Bolton's
Burnden Park. This would be one of only 12 wins all season which saw poor form for the team. February saw the return of
Syd Puddefoot
Sydney Charles Puddefoot (17 October 1894 – 2 October 1972) was an English footballer who played for West Ham United, Falkirk and Blackburn Rovers. He played mainly as a centre forward or inside right. He was also a cricketer for Essex. ...
to the club, after ten years away, but his seven appearances and no goals did nothing to stave off relegation.
West Ham gained a single point from their last 10 games, finished 22nd and bottom and were relegated to the Second Division.
[ Vic Watson was the top scorer with 25 goals in all competitions. He was also top scorer in the league with 23. ]Jimmy Ruffell
James William Ruffell (8 August 1900 – 6 September 1989) was an English footballer who played as an outside-left. He made over 500 appearances in the Football League for West Ham United, and ended his career with a short spell at Aldershot.
R ...
made the most appearances; 41 in all competitions.[
Relegation for West Ham had a dramatic effect on the mental health of manager King. Suffering from ]delusions
A delusion is a false fixed belief that is not amenable to change in light of conflicting evidence. As a pathology, it is distinct from a belief based on false or incomplete information, confabulation, dogma, illusion, hallucination, or some o ...
, these became chronic during the season and were a factor towards his sacking and death the following season.
First Division
Results
''West Ham United's score comes first''
Legend
Football League First Division
FA Cup
Squad
References
{{DEFAULTSORT:1931-32 West Ham United F.C. season
West Ham United F.C. seasons
1931 sports events in London
1932 sports events in London
West Ham United