West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic has revealed that Kevin Nolan decided to leave the club because he was growing frustrated at being on the bench.
The 33-year-old midfielder left Upton Park this morning by mutual consent after four years with the Hammers.
When asked if a lack of game time was the reason behind Nolan's departure, Bilic told The Express: "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.
"Even in the short period that I worked with him he was a brilliant professional and hard worker."
Nolan scored 31 goals in 157 games for West Ham after joining from Newcastle United in 2011.