Kevin Nolan leaves West Ham United by mutual consent

West Ham United have announced that Kevin Nolan has left the club by mutual consent.

The midfielder joined the Hammers from Newcastle United in summer 2011, scoring 31 goals in 157 games in the last four seasons.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed my time at West Ham United and will take some great memories with me," Nolan, 33, told the club website.

"I'm now looking forward to the next challenge playing for a new club."

In his first season with the Hammers Nolan captained the East London side to promotion from the Championship, before finishing the following two seasons as the club's top goalscorer in the Premier League.