West Ham have seen one of their key backroom figures part ways with the club to join Manchester United.
Things are already not the best on the pitch for the Hammers, as they are on course to get relegated from the Premier League.
To make matters worse, they will now have to deal with the departure of someone who plays an important role behind the scenes.
This is shocking! 😰 Relegation is going to be dire for West Ham…
What would YOU do to avoid this mess?
👇 Join the debate; share your insight. Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say
Cat Smith leaves West Ham for Manchester United
According to Henry Winter, Catherine “Cat” Smith will be leaving her role at the London Stadium to move to Manchester United.
In his view, this will upset the Hammers fans as she is a beloved figure at the club.
Smith joined West Ham in March 2024 to become the Head of Supporter Services and Fan Engagement.
A London DERBY awaits! 🎡
How are you feeling ahead of West Ham v Fulham? How important is this fixture?
👇 Join the debate; share your insight. Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say
Prior to that, she served as the Head of Supporter Relations at Chelsea, while also spending a few years at Manchester City as Senior Communications Manager/Project Manager.
She was also at Leeds United from 2011 to 2013, as she served as the Hospitality Manager for the Elland Road outfit.
After nearly 15 years of experience in the UK and internationally, Smith will be joining Manchester United.
Winter wrote on X: “West Ham fans understandably frustrated to lose Cat Smith, the highly regarded Supporters’ Liaison Officer. Believed to be off to Manchester United in a senior comms role.”
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty ImagesWhy is Smith beloved by West Ham fans?
Smith has ties to West Ham as her father and grandfather were fans, and that quickly helped her resonate with the London Stadium faithful.
She played a very important role in bridging the gap between the owners and the supporters, via fan groups, acknowledging past mistakes made by the hierarchy.
This was certainly viewed as a refreshing change during periods of fan unrest, which included disputes over ticket pricing, concessions and stadium experience.
While things are far from ideal with regard to the fans and the board, they would have been far worse without Smith, and her absence will surely be felt.
It remains to be seen if West Ham look to bring in someone from outside or promote from within, as this is an important role.
With relegation proving to be a very legitimate possibility, having someone to serve as a liaison between the owners and fans would certainly be beneficial to the club.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best West Ham content each week direct to your mailbox