Winston Reid leaves West Ham United by mutual consent
Winston Reid has left West Ham United after both parties decided to part ways by mutual consent on Tuesday.
The 33-year-old centre-back joined the Hammers in 2010, going on to make over 200 appearances across all competitions and helping them win the Championship play-offs in 2012.
The New Zealand international still had two more years left on his deal, but he wants to play and he had to leave as he is clearly not in David Moyes’ plans.
Reid has sent a message to the Hammers fans and the club upon his exit, telling West Ham TV: “I have a lot of respect for the Club, and we’ve found an agreement that’s good for everyone involved.
“I came here in 2010 and have just enjoyed so much of playing for the Club. It’s been a special time.
“I’ve always felt that the fans have supported me, and I’ve always tried to give my best for them. At the end of the day, when you’re a footballer, that’s what you enjoy the most, going out there and playing in front of a lot of fans.
“Over the years, that’s also what I’ve enjoyed the most: playing for your fans, for your teammates, for your coaches and for your family.
“I just want to say ‘thank you’ and I wish you all the best for the future.”
West Ham hero
Reid last played for the Irons in March 2018, with a knee injury he sustained against Swansea City ruling him out of action for the whole of the 2018-19 season.
The 2012-13 Hammer of the Year spent the following season on loan with Major League Soccer outfit Sporting Kansas City before joining Brentford for the latter half of 2020-21.
The centre-back played 11 leagues games and helped the Bees reach the promotion play-off final.
They secured Premier League promotion for the first time in their history but decided against signing him permanently.
He will not be short of suitors after becoming a free agent, though, and he will be keen to prove that he can still play at a high level.
Reid wrote his name into West Ham United folklore in May 2016, bagging the last ever goal scored at Upton Park in the 3-2 win against Manchester United, and he will surely be missed by everyone associated with the great club.
In other West Ham news, PL trio want to sign Hammers forward with scouts watching intently this season.
Be sure to follow West Ham Zone on Facebook and Twitter for 24/7 updates on the Hammers and more exclusive interviews with Frank McAvennie.