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James Collins fears West Ham transfer exit but would be ‘devastated’ to go

Uncertain future: James Collins in action against Bournemouth on Saturday: Getty Images
Uncertain future: James Collins in action against Bournemouth on Saturday: Getty Images

James Collins admits he would be “devastated” if he had to leave West Ham but fears he may have to if there is no imminent progress on a new contract.

The club’s long-serving defender is in the final year of his deal and says he has yet to be offered new terms so far this month.

Brighton are considering a £2.5million bid for the 34-year-old, who has amassed more than 100 appearances for West Ham since joining the club in 2012.

Former Wales international Collins, who is a big favourite with the West Ham supporters, gave a solid display in the 1-1 draw against Bournemouth. He said: “Nothing has been said to me. I don’t know if it’s [talks of a new deal] on the back burner. If nothing happens in January, I could be left in the lurch come the end of the season.

“It’s a situation I would like to get sorted as soon as possible because I don’t like to go into training thinking about it all the time. As far as I’m concerned, I’m still playing as well as ever.

“I would be devastated if I had to go. I did it once before when I went to Aston Villa and it ‘killed’ me.

“If it comes to the worst, though, I’d probably have to go because, at my age, I need to play football.

“I’d be bitterly disappointed to have to leave this club because it’s a massive part of my life. I know I am 34 and picked up too many little injuries this season but I feel I’m playing better than ever I have.

“When I’m out there I play my heart out and give my all, as I’ve done for the past 10 years.”

Javier Hernandez, who came on as a second-half substitute for hamstring victim Manuel Lanzini, scored West Ham’s equaliser moments after Ryan Fraser had given Bournemouth the lead.

Collins said: “It was massive to equalise straight after their goal and I was delighted for Chicharito. He hasn’t played as much as he’d have liked over the last few weeks so for him to get a goal was great.”