Tomkins joins Crystal Palace

West Ham United can confirm that James Tomkins has joined Crystal Palace for £10million.


Having joined the West Ham United Academy aged just seven, Tomkins progressed through the youth ranks before signing as a scholar in 2005.


A week before his 19th birthday, Tomkins made his Premier League debut in a 1-1 draw away at Everton. Following an extended run in the side toward the back end of the 2007/08 season, Tomkins won the prestigious Young Hammer of the Year award.


The following year, Tomkins enjoyed a brief yet successful loan stint at Derby County, before returning to east London to play a pivotal part in the second half of the 2008/09 campaign.


Having established himself as a regular first team player, Tomkins played a crucial role in the 2011/12 Play-Off winning campaign.


In recognition of his outstanding performances, Tomkins was named in the PFA Championship Team of the Year and was voted runner-up Hammer of the Year behind teammate and close friend Mark Noble.


Back in the Premier League, Tomkins was an ever-present in re-establishing the Hammers’ top-flight credentials.


In total, across nine seasons in the first team, Tomkins made a total of 243 appearances, scoring 11 goals.


?West Ham United would like to thank James for his hard work and commitment during his time at the Club and wish him all the best in his future career.