James Collins devoted the majority of his career to West Ham United.
The former Wales international made over 200 appearances for the Hammers during his playing career, spending a total of 11 years with the east London outfit.
In that time, Collins became somewhat of a cult hero among fans of the Irons, making his exit from the club back in 2018 – and more so the manner in which it happened – even more heartbreaking.
Speaking on TalkSPORT recently, the 36-year-old admitted how he was made aware that his services were no longer required at the London Stadium – a generic email.
It left the central defender in a difficult position; he was not able to properly say goodbye to the fans and players in which he had played alongside for so many years.
Collins did also reveal that he had been in contact with one of the Hammers’ owners – David Sullivan – regarding a return to the club to maintain fitness levels, something he agreed Collins could do, which actually earned him a move to Ipswich Town at the beginning of the year.
He was released from the Tractor Boys in the summer, however, and is currently without a club.
Here’s what some fans had to say about the situation on Twitter:
No class sell up @davidgold @karren_brady
— J Smythy (@smyth_james) November 14, 2019
Zero class from the owners 🤦🏻♂️
— Simon Woolfman (@Simonwoolfman) November 13, 2019
Why would we treat him like this? He gave us 11 years. Absolutely shocking from the owners. 0 class.
— Sam Brooks (@Sambrooks90) November 13, 2019
Embarrassing! What a joke. He deserved so much better.
— Adam Wilson (@adammwilson) November 14, 2019
”There’s only one ginger Pele” top-class professional. Zero class from the owners. If you want loyalty from your players than we need to treat them with the respect they deserve.
— RobEyez (@RobEyez) November 14, 2019
Can’t believe they done that to him
— Rob Whittington (@Robwhitt07) November 14, 2019
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West Ham fans, how much do you miss Collins? Comment below!
