Connors' Fond Farewell

David Connolly, who finalised his move to Leicester on Tuesday, says he thoroughly enjoyed his time at Upton Park.

"Obviously it is a big disappointment to be leaving after just one season; the chance to play for a club like West Ham doesn't come along that often and I made a lot of sacrifices to play for them," he reveals.

"I really enjoyed my time there; I won a branch of the Supporters' Club Player Of The Year and Evening Standard Player Of The Month so it went quite well.

"It was a big shame we didn't get promoted, but I enjoyed playing for the fans and I had a big rapport with them.

"It is a pity that all those people with the number eight shirts with my name on the back will see me leaving after a season - it wasn't my intention to do that.

"But a bid was accepted and when that happens you have no choice; you know you have to go where the offer is.

"That is what I have done; I had two fantastic clubs wanting me and in the end I chose Leicester.

"But I wish West Ham all the best and I hope they get back to where they belong in the Premier League as soon as possible.

"I met some wonderful people at the club behind the scenes, working in and around the club, such as the chefs, the fitness people, the media people - it is a fantastic staff and the supporters are great.

"I appreciated them and they me - it was a great place to play football."