The summer rebuild at West Ham has begun and it’s meant that fans have had to wave goodbye to one of their favourites at the club.
The Hammers confirmed that Wales international James Collins, who turns 35 in August, will leave the London Stadium when his contract expires at the end of June.
Collins gave 11 years of service to the east London side during two different spells with the club and is affectionately dubbed ‘the ginger Pele’, winning over fans with fine defensive displays and a number of crucial goals.
While some wanted to see Collins remain at the London Stadium, suggesting a coaching role would be a good move, West Ham have elected not to explore such an option and the veteran will have to look elsewhere to continue his career.
After the news was confirmed by West Ham, fans were quick to share their views on the situation on social media – with many calling for a testimonial to be played in his honour.
What a disgusting way to treat a loyal and dedicated player. #StayClassy
— H (@hevans111) May 24, 2018
Nearly as bad as we treated the great Bobby Moore. I sometimes wonder why I support this club
— William Caswell (@WilliamCaswel18) May 24, 2018
Good luck Ginge. We will miss you. Thanks for everything fella. Quality defender
— Kevin Trivett (@KevinTrivett1) May 24, 2018
Thanks for everything, you gave absolutely everything every time you pulled on that shirt⚒⚒⚒⚒#GINGERPELE
— Luke Bachmann (@Bachmann1996) May 24, 2018
You need to give him a testimonial guys, he deserves that at the least. #onlyonegingerpele #ThanksGinge
— Dan Swaby (@Swabybaby01) May 24, 2018
Absolutely disgusted, I’m 62 years old and I’ve supported West Ham my whole life as all of my family have and still do but I’m ashamed to call myself a fan now. Do the decent thing and give the man a testimonial ⚒
— Janice Girling (@specialjan54) May 24, 2018
Like many have said, he deserves a testimonial. ⚒
— William Hunt (@WilliamJ_Hunt) May 24, 2018
This should never be tweeted get him in coaching or anything great man for the club and dis service to him needs testimonial
— SWHam (@SWham_) May 24, 2018
Come on man, he deserves a testimonial, love you ginge
Bad times when the club's Twitter account gives you a better send off than the owners
— Granny (@MrPatrick999) May 24, 2018
This man has done more this club than Sullivan and Gold ever will, give him a testimonial!
— Ethan
