West Ham thank James Collins for his ‘bravery and commitment’ as defender departs after 10 years’ service

West Ham have confirmed the departure of long-serving central defender James Collins.

The former Wales international, who has been at the club for a total of 10 years in two spells and made 214 appearances, was hoping for a new one-year contract but posted a picture on Wednesday of himself leaving the pitch in the final game of last season, with the caption: “It’s official I will be leaving West Ham on June 30th…Heartbroken.”

A big favourite with fans, Collins, 35 in August, had limited game time this season because of injuries and with new manager Manuel Pellegrini wanting to freshen up his squad, the writing was always going to be on the wall for the defender.

There was some ill-feeling about Collins’s departure when it was suggested he had been informed in an e-mail but the club dispute this, claiming conversations had taken place with officials but that regulations mean players not retained have to be informed before the third weekend in May.

Owners David Sullivan and David Gold said: “We would like to place on record our sincere thanks for the outstanding service James has given West Ham down the years.

“His bravery and commitment were never called into question and he has played his part in establishing the club in the Premier League since his return in 2012.

“We appreciate just how popular James is among supporters but with the appointment of a new manager, we felt together the time was right to go our separate ways.”

Former France defender Patrice Evra will also depart when his contract expires on June 30.