West Ham United have announced that their new academy development pitch at Chadwell Heath has been named The Mark Noble Arena, in honour of their club captain.
The 35-year-old, who will be retiring at the end of the season, received an emotional send-off at the London Stadium in his final home match of the season against Manchester City last weekend.
Noble will end his 18-year professional career with a trip to Brighton & Hove Albion, where he could make his 550th appearances for the Hammers on Sunday.
"I am truly honoured to have this new academy facility named after me. Chadwell Heath has a very special place in my heart – it's where I first kicked a ball for West Ham United, where I grew up as a player and as a person, and where I learned so much from so many good people," Noble told the club's official website.
"There is so much great work that goes on behind the scenes at the academy – all the coaches and support staff who devote their time to developing the players on the pitch and also instilling the standards and values off the pitch that are so important.
"It's wonderful that they have such fantastic facilities here at Chadwell Heath now, because it has helped to create a really special environment."
West Ham's new development pitch underwent a £4m redevelopment in 2019 and has been enhanced with a state-of-the-art all-weather surface, new fencing and a dedicated spectator area.
The Mark Noble Arena, which will be used by the club's academy scholars of all ages, is branded with artwork paying tribute to the legendary midfielder's career.
Oliver Thomas
