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West Ham United confirm James Collins, Patrice Evra departures

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 24 May 2018

West Ham confirm Collins, Evra departures

Long-serving centre-back James Collins will leave West Ham United when his contract expires at the end of June, while Patrice Evra is another high-profile departure.

West Ham United have confirmed that defenders James Collins and Patrice Evra will leave the London Stadium when their contracts expire at the end of next month.

Collins departs the club having made 214 appearances during two spells in East London, while Evra only arrived on a short-term deal in February.

Reports emerged last week suggesting that Collins had been told via email by West Ham that his contract would not be renewed for a further year, causing anger among the fanbase.

While the circumstances surrounding the ex-Wales international's exit remain unknown, the Premier League side have announced that neither he nor Evra will be retained.

Joint-chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold said in a statement: "We would like to place on record our sincere thanks for the outstanding service James has given West Ham United down the years.

"His bravery and commitment on the pitch 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 our fellow supporters but, with the appointment of a new manager, we felt together that the time was right to go our separate ways. It goes without saying that we wish James and his family every success in the future and they will always be welcome at London Stadium."

Korrey Henry, Rosaire Longelo and Rihards Matrevics will also be released at the end of their scholarships.