Slaven Bilic reveals reason why Kevin Nolan left West Ham

Kevin Nolan has left West Ham in order to get more playing time at another club

SLAVEN BILIC admits Kevin Nolan left because he got sick of life on the bench

Nolan captained West Ham in last week’s defeat to Bournemouth, which turned out to be his last game for the club.

And Hammers boss Bilic felt he had to let the midfielder go after several heart-to-hearts.
When asked if a lack of game time was the only reason behind the former Newcastle and Bolton man’s departure, Bilic said: “That is basically the only reason, yes. In the end it is good for both parties.
“I had a few chats with Kevin and now he is leaving and I can always say thanks to Kevin from me and club because he was a great captain and professional.

Slaven Bilic labelled Nolan a 'great captain and professional'

“Even in the short period that I worked with him he was a brilliant professional and hard worker.”
Nolan had earlier commented in a club statement: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at West Ham United and will take some great memories with me. I’m looking forward to the next challenge and playing for a new club.”
Bilic hopes Diafra Sakho will be available for selection in time for Saturday’s game with Liverpool.

The striker has a groin injury and was arrested earlier this week on suspicion of making threats to kill and intimidating a witness.
But Bilic says he has no concerns over the state of Sakho’s mental health and that the player’s fitness is the only issue.
“I am more concentrated on the physical side,” Bilic added.
“I spoke to the player of course about that other issue and he looks bright and if he’s fit physically he’ll be in the squad because he’s good in the head and we need players in those positions.”

Bilic also admits Enner Valencia has issued a personal apology after the public one which came in the wake of him criticising the club’s medical department.
He added: “He [Valencia] is a good lad and he apologised and he’s back in the normal routine.
“He knows especially our medical department is trying very hard to get him back as soon as possible and I’m sure he knew that when he said that.
“But he said some wrong things about the club that I really believe he didn’t mean to.”