Defender James Collins has committed his long term future to West Ham by claiming he wants to ‘end his career’ at the London Stadium.
In two spells with the club, Collins has played a total of 199 games for the Hammers and found the net 8 times. This season will be his tenth as a West Ham player, and his sixth since rejoining the club following a three year spell at Aston Villa between 2009 and 2012.
A hugely popular figure with the Hammers fans, many will be delighted to hear the news the Wales international intends to see out his playing days in Claret and Blue.
Speaking on whufc.com, Collins said: “To think I’ve been a part of this Club for nearly ten years now is incredible,” he says. “It’s been a major part of my life – I met my wife here, so my family are from the area, and I’m a very lucky boy to have been at such a good club for so long. And hopefully it can continue.
“I’d love to finish my career here. I’m 33 now, but I felt at the end of last season that I was playing as well as I ever have.”
Collins can make his 200th appearance in all competitions for the Hammers if he features against Manchester United on the opening day of the 2017/18 Premier League season, and the Welshman believes he is fully ready for the challenge ahead.
“I’ve come back for pre-season fit, I’m lucky that I haven’t had any really major injuries in my career, and I feel really good. I’m going into the last year of my contract, but I believe there is a lot of football left in me at this level and I’d love to stay here for years to come.”
