Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Sat 28 March 2026 8:45, UK

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Harry Redknapp shared a brilliant story of how West Ham United wanted to see Clyde Best’s birth certificate after his first day at the club.

The former Iron was speaking at the London premiere of Transforming the Beautiful Game – The Clyde Best story, a new documentary about the life of the ex-forward.

Arriving in London as a 17-year-old, the Bermudan quickly became one the first black players to play in England’s First Division, featuring alongside the likes of Bobby Moore and Sir Geoff Hurst.

Best faced significant racial abuse during his time at Upton Park, but managed to pave the way for many young black footballers that came after him.

The West Ham legend’s story, directed by Dan Egan, is being screened at Sadler’s Wells East in London until March 28.

Harry Redknapp shares incredible Clyde Best story

Best exclusively told Football Insider in December that Nuno Espirito Santo will succeed at West Ham.

The Portuguese boss is the first black manager in the Hammers’ history, marking further progress nearly 60 years after Best made his debut.

The forward had arrived off a plane from Bermuda for a trial in London, and was left to find his own way to the club.

He eventually did, after he was directed to the home of fellow players John and Clive Charles, who would also feature among the first black West Ham players.

Redknapp, who played for the Irons between 1965 and 1972, spoke at Thursday’s premiere about his first experiences with Best.

“I remember Clyde’s first day at West Ham at Chapel Heath,” he said. “He played on the Saturday, they played him in the youth team.

“Was it Arsenal, Clyde? I don’t know, but I think you scored a couple of goals and they wanted to see your birth certificate. They said: ‘He’s not under 18!'”

Redknapp pays tribute to Best

As Egan’s documentary makes clear, Best’s story is one that desperately needs to be heard.

The former forward’s type in England was transformative for the way football has developed in the years since.

“It was his dedication of wanting to be a footballer that was incredible,” Redknapp added. “And what a career he had. And do you know what?

“Apart from the football, he’s just a fantastic person. And that is more important. He’s a great human being.”

You can watch Transforming the Beautiful Game – The Clyde Best Story at Sadler’s Wells East on 28 March by booking tickets here.