Angelo Ogbonna has confirmed that he has not been approached by West Ham regarding a new deal. This news will come as little surprise to many, given that the Italian defender turns 36 this week. The update coincides with reports of contract extensions for both Lukasz Fabianski and Aaron Cresswell.
The central defender, who signed from Juventus, stated, “Everyone knows how committed I’ve been to the cause, everyone knows my position now. I always try to do my best, to be professional, and whatever comes, I will respect the decision.”
The Italian centre-back has been a fantastic servant for West Ham and, at times during his Hammers career, was one of the finest centre-backs in the Premier League.
However, with the club looking to bring in two new central defenders and reduce the age of the squad, it was always likely that Ogbonna would be surplus to requirements next season.
Personally, I will always remember the way Ogbonna performed during lockdown football when his leadership was a pivotal part of West Ham’s excellent form.
Our best longtime servant and one of few personalities that embodies West Ham. I’d certainly keep him as a coach!!!
Why get rid of oggy and keep kouma cresswell don’t make sense to me
Why on earth is Cresswell getting another year. This is a terrible decision, he has been finished for a few years now. Disappointing.
Good luck Oggy, the right time, great servant.
To be honest I didn’t expect him to be offered another year aged 36, the Premier League is a cruel place for slowing defenders. But what a servant, what a lovely bloke, what a good player on his day. He has always represented himself and West Ham in the best way. Cheers Oggy.
True professional 😀
Thanks Oggy
Angelo Ogbonna has been brilliant for West Ham. I remember when he arrived, his centre-back competition came via Winston Reid, James Collins and James Tomkins. When Reid picked up an injury Ogbonna played alongside Collins, and their partnership had more clean sheets than any other combination. Tomkins was sold to Crystal Palace when Slaven Bilic couldn’t promised him a start every game.Jose Fonte was temporarily brought in, and a teenage Declan Rice was promoted up from the academy before he was moved into midfield.
Our central defence doesn’t now seem as solid as it was around 2017.
Oggie’s huge presence will be missed…..but at 36, I didn’t think he’d be offered a contract extension. Its been a stellar nine years.
Top servant for this club, we’ll miss you Oggy ⚒️⚒️
Always remember his last minute winner against Liverpool in the league cup, gave his all