Nolan leaves Magpies

Kevin Nolan has completed his surprise move to relegated West Ham United from Newcastle United.

The 28-year-old midfielder has left the Magpies for an undisclosed fee, believed to be up to £4m, and agreed a five-year deal at Upton Park.

New Hammers manager Sam Allardyce will make Nolan the club's captain in the hope he can repeat his heroics of two seasons ago, when his 17 goals helped Newcastle bounce straight back into the Barclays Premier League after their relegation.

The deal is a real coup for Allardyce, who has landed a player he knows well from their successful spell together at Bolton Wanderers and who hit 12 top-flight goals last term

It is a move Nolan admits came out of the blue. "It's been a bit of a whirlwind, but obviously once I knew they wanted me, they have shown a certain hunger and desire to make sure I become a West Ham player," he said.

"Having the chance to link up with Sam again is a massive thing and obviously coming to such a massive club is great for me.

"I'm very sad to leave Newcastle but I'm coming to another massive club in my eyes, and hopefully I can be as successful as I was there.

"I've come to West Ham because of the tradition of the club and everything about it. I've always enjoyed playing here and there was also the chance of linking up with Sam and working with him again."

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew thanked the midfielder for all his efforts at St James' Park.

He said: "I am aware that the club made Kevin a good offer to stay, but could not agree over the length of the contract offered. This obviously happens in football and everybody needs to move on.

"I would like to thank Kevin for his sterling efforts as a player and captain of this club, especially since I took over last season.

"He displayed admirable leadership qualities, and I wish him every success at West Ham. It's a great club and I'm sure he will thrive there."

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