Ex-West Ham and Crystal Palace star calls time on his career | OneFootball

James Tomkins has officially announced his retirement from football. The former West Ham United center-back had been a free agent since being released by Crystal Palace at the end of last season. In total, he made 386 club appearances.

Tomkins made his professional debut for West Ham United in 2008 and went on to represent Great Britain at the 2012 Olympic Games, winning a silver medal. Despite earning 37 caps at the junior level for England, he was never given an opportunity to play for the senior national team.

At club level, Tomkins played 243 matches for West Ham United, the club he joined as an eight-year-old in 1997. He also had a brief loan spell at Derby County in 2008. He played a key role in West Ham’s promotion from the Championship in 2012 and their early years back in the Premier League. Across all competitions, he scored 10 goals for the Hammers, including two in the UEFA Europa League during his final season at the club.

On an individual level, Tomkins was named West Ham United's Young Player of the Year for the 2007–08 season and was part of the PFA Championship Team of the Year in 2011–12.

After nine years at West Ham, Tomkins joined Crystal Palace in 2016. Over eight seasons, he made 136 appearances in all competitions. However, injuries limited his playing time in his final campaign, featuring just five times before being released last summer.

Announcing his retirement on Instagram, 35-year-old Tomkins expressed his gratitude:

"Thank you to my amazing family for making my career even possible and their continued support over the years. Also, thank you to all the brilliant coaches and players I have worked with throughout my career.

"I was lucky to play for three clubs, all with amazing fans who make football what it is. I will miss the game, but it’s time to announce my retirement."*

A dependable defender throughout his career, Tomkins leaves behind a legacy of commitment and professionalism at both West Ham and Crystal Palace.