Jesse Lingard reacts as Angelo Ogbonna sends new message to West Ham United supporters
Jesse Lingard and Declan Rice have reacted after Angelo Ogbonna posted a goodbye message to West Ham United following his exit.
The Italian defender’s nine-year stay in East London came to an end this summer as the Hammers opted to not renew his contract despite his willingness to pen new terms at the London Stadium [Evening Standard, 1 May].
Despite falling down David Moyes’ pecking order in his final campaign with the Irons, the 36-year-old remained a popular figure among supporters and has finally said his goodbyes to the fans via social media.
Posting on his Instagram account on Monday (8 July) Ogbonna posted a video of him reflecting on his best moments in an Irons’ shirt with the caption: “Once a Hammer, Always a Hammer!”
Former West Ham loanee Lingard quickly replied: “Big bro” followed by a handshake and heart emoji while Rice said: “One of the best, love you brother” followed by a heart.
Are West Ham United close to any new transfers in the summer window?
Lingard may have been a divisive figure at West Ham over the last couple of years following his loan spell with the Irons, but it is clear from his reply to Ogbonna that he still holds his time in East London in high regard.
The Italian may not have had as much of an impact on the pitch in his final couple of years at the London Stadium, but he was known to be a popular figure in the changing room and his impact off the field cannot be undervalued.
Like so many other members of Moyes’ squad, he will always be remembered as a modern-day Irons legend for playing his part in that night in Prague. Hopefully, he will be back in East London in some capacity sooner rather than later.
For now, however, Julen Lopetegui may have to move quickly to ensure that he replaces the 36-year-old this summer.
Max Kilman is a smart addition to the defensive ranks but at least one further addition will be needed if the Hammers want to break back into the European places.
In other West Ham news, Danny Ings’ stance on a summer move away from the London Stadium has emerged amid links with Southampton
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