Ricardo Vaz Te leaves Upton Park for Turkey

West Ham United have confirmed that striker Ricardo Vaz Te has left the club by mutual consent, and agreed a deal to join Turkish Super Lig club Akhisar Belediyespor.

The 28-year-old scored the winning goal in the 2012 Championship playoff final to earn West Ham promotion to the Premier League, but has fallen down the pecking order at Upton Park, making only 12 appearances for the Hammers in the last two seasons.

"To everyone involved at West Ham United, its been a privilege to play for your club," Vaz Te tweeted when the move had been confirmed.

"Each and everyone of you will have a place in my heart, I have made some amazing memories and met amazing people which I will cherish for the rest of my life. Thank you, I love you all. Now I start a new journey in Turkey."

Akhisar Belediyespor, who are managed by former Real Madrid and Brazil left-back Roberto Carlos, currently sit 11th in the Super Lig, with 17 points from 16 games.