Web Item - Hayden Mullins

Mullins leaves for Portsmouth
WHUFC.com
Hayden Mullins has left West Ham United for Portsmouth on a three-and-a-half
year contract
26.01.2009

West Ham United have allowed midfielder Hayden Mullins to join Portsmouth
for an undisclosed fee.

Mullins has been a loyal servant for the club since signing from Crystal
Palace for £800,000 in October 2003 and was the longest-serving first-team
player at the Boleyn Ground. Mullins was given permission to talk to
Portsmouth on Sunday after a substantial bid was made for his services. He
then travelled to the south-coast club to complete a medical and agree
personal terms.

The midfielder, who turns 30 in March, played 178 league games for the club,
scoring four goals. However, he had started just eight games in all
competitions this campaign, along with 13 appearances off the bench. The
Reading-born player has agreed a three-and-a-half year contract at Fratton
Park.

West Ham United manager Gianfranco Zola said: "I wish Hayden well for the
future. I did not want to lose him but at this point in his career he wanted
to play regularly and I respect his wishes. He asked me if he could talk to
Portsmouth and I could have said 'No' but he is a man that has shown this
club a lot of respect. He has been loyal and it would not have been fair to
stand in his way."

West Ham United CEO Scott Duxbury said: "I would like to thank Hayden for
his valued contribution. I wish him well and have no doubt that our
supporters will give him a good reception whenever he returns. Gianfranco
has been clear about allowing players on the fringes to get first-team
football elsewhere if the opportunity arises and - given the fee, his age
and his desire to play regularly - this deal is good for all parties.

"The manager has also spoken about improving the squad and I am working
closely with him and technical director Gianluca Nani to make this happen.
Any new arrivals will complement our blend of experienced internationals and
homegrown youngsters. Our aim is simply to continue progressing in the
league and the FA Cup, and build for the future at West Ham United."